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premiAre  page  qui  comporte  une  empreinte 
d'impression  ou  d'illustration  et  en  terminant  par 
la  derniAra  page  qui  comporte  une  teiie 
empreinte. 

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derniire  image  de  cheque  microfiche,  selon  le 
cas:  le  symbole  — ►  signifie  "A  SUIVRE",  le 
symbole  ▼  signifie  "FIN". 

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filmis  A  des  taux  de  reduction  diffdrents. 
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LIFE  OF  JAMES  KNOX  POLK. 


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JAMES  EVOX  POLK, 


iin>A 


HISTOfiY  OF  HIS  ADMINISTRATION,- 


^J^ 


Dnuuanfa 


THE  ANNEXAHON  OP  TEXAS,  THE  DIFFICULTIES  WITH  MEX 
ICO.  THE  SETTLEMENT  OF  THE  OREGON  QUeS 
AND  OTHER  IMPORTANT  EVENTO.  ' 


} 


BY  JOHN  sHjENKINS, 

*«™0R  OF  «TB.  H,.TO,r  O,  ,H.  W4,  WITH  MtXICO,"  .TO. 


AUBdRN  AND  BUFFALO 

4;0HN   E.    BEARDSLEY: 


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'  E„t,«d.aocordiBgtoaotofCongre»..  in  the  year  Xm,  by 

JAMES  M.   ALDEN. 
,.  tb.  CWV.  Offlco  or  the  D.tHct  Co-  <>f  tV.  United  S-tc.  for  the 
Northern  Di«trict  of  New  York.  


T.  B.  «mTH,  Steieotypet, 
916  WiHiRm  it.,  N.  Y. 


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- 1  iriaiiwnr'''^''"^ 


'    '    '     '  I    " II 11  J,...  I,    .. 


"  ll.l|,|ll>  Jin. 


SSO.by 


St -108  for  tho 


TO   THE 

;     HON.  WILLIAM   L  MARCY. 

•t'n 

A§ 

* 

A  TOKEN  OF  HIGH   PERSONAL  ESTEEM 

(Sljis  llolnme 

IS  RESPECTFULLY  INSCRIBED, 

BY  THE  AUTHOB. 


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iMmmmtiff"  ■iV'.ii- 


I  "I"  I    '"^fmrnm"* 


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PREFACE. 


The  life  m  any  American  President,  I  feel  confident, 
would  not  need  ti-bo  specially  commended  to  the  atten- 
tion of  his  countrymoK._and  certainly  not  that  of  James 
K.  Polk,-for  whatever  n«y  bo  the  opinions  entertained 
in  regard  to  the  administration  of  which  he  was  the  head, 
it  must  be  conceded  that  great  ai^  important  measures 
were  submitted  to  their  consideration  and  action,  and 
that  interests  of  the  deepest  magnitude  wore  confided  to 
their  hands. 

Mr.  Polk  could  not  have  said,  with  Augustus  Caesar, 
that  he  found  the  capital  of  the  republic  built  of  brick, 
and  left  it  constructed  of  marble ;  but  he  might  have 
claimed  that  he  found  her  territories  bounded  on  tho 
south  by  the  Sabine  and  the  42d  parallel,  and  her  au- 
thority west  of  tho  Rocky  Mountains  existing  only  in 
name,— and  when  he  transferred  the  government  to  other 
hands.  New  Mexico  and  California  were  annexed  to  her 
domain,  and  her  flag  floated  in  token  of  sovereignty  on 


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2       .  PREFACE. 

the  banks  of  the  Rio  Grande,  on  the  shores  of  the  Straits 
of  Fuca,  and  in  tho  bay  of  San  Francisco. 

How  and  in  what  manner  these  territorial  acquisitions 
were  made,  is  a  question  worthy  of  inquiry.     Mr.  Polk 
did  not  want  for  able  defenders  to  vindicate  tho  policy  of 
his  administration ;  nor  did  his  conduct  escape  censure  aixl 
criticism.     By  some,  as  in  tho  pamphlet  of  tho  latp  Mr. 
Gallatin,  one  of  the  most  important  measures  w'^'*  >v'»ch 
tho  late  President  was  identified-the  war  w'h  Mexico- 
was  reviewed  in  a  spirit  of  candor  and  ^ankness,  yet,  aa 
I  think,  under  tho  influence  of  erro-eous  impressions  with 
regard  to  the  facts  upon  whioV  conclusions  were  based; 
and  by  others,  as  in  th.  Review  of  Mr.  Jay  and  the 
productions  of  those  vAo  havo  followed  in  hie  wake-.ed 
longo  intervallo^^it^  pure  and  honest  motives,  but  with 
dogmatic  assumptions,  and  appeals  to  the  passions  and 
the  sympsthies,  rather  than  with  well-founded  argu- 

It  is  not  claimed  for  this  volume,  that  it  is  enturely 
impartial.  Entertaining  his  own  views- m  all  smcenty, 
the  writer  has  not  hesitated  to  express  them ;  and  this 
right  he  is  quite  willing  should  bo  exercised  by  those  who 
differ  from  him  in  opinion. 

It  has  not  appeared  to  me  to  be  advisable,  to  present 
a  detaUed  history  of  the  war  in  Mexico,  for  two  reasons. 
In  the  fir^  place,  so  much  has  been  written  on  the  sub- 


iitiiujiwii 


PHttACE. 


the  Straits 

icquisltions 
•Mr.  Polk 
10  policy  of 
3on8uro  ap<i' 
lie  lat»'  Mr. 
•^kh  which 
ti  Mexico — 
ess,  yet,  as 
Dssions  with 
^ero  based; 
ay  and  the 
J  wake — sed 
'68,  but  with    , 
)aBsionB  and 
mded  argu- 

t  is  entirely 
siU  sincerity, 
m ;  and  this 
by  those  Yfho 

le,  to  present 
>  t^o  reasons, 
in  on  the  sub- 


ject, that  there  is  very  littlo  left  to  add  to  the  accounts 
of  the  cumpai,i;ii3 ;  and  secondly,  it  v.oiild  seem  like  claim- 
ing for  Mr.  Polk  imliviilually,  the  merit  of  tranHactions 
in  which  lie  had  no  diivet  participation,  and  thert'foro 
doing  his  memory  a  positive  injuslis  . 

"Aside  from  all  political  considerations,  there  is  somo- 
thing  in  the  eliiiracter  of  Mr.  Polk,  in  his  early  struggles 
and  inTiis  triumphs,  which  in  wortlij  of  notice,  and  wdl 
challenge  admiration.  "  There  is  nothing  so  interesting 
to  me,"  saya  Joanna  I'aillic,  "  as  to  trace  the  course  of  • 
a  prosperous  man  through  tiii,^  varied  worlil.  First,  ho 
is  seen  like  a  little  stream,  wearing  its  shalloAV  hcd 
through  the  grass,  circling  and  winding,  and  gleaning  up 
its  treasures  from  every  twinkling  rill  as  it  parses;  fur- 
ther on,  the  brown  sand  fences  its  margin,  the  dark 
rushes  thicken  on  its  side;  further  on  still,  the  broad 
flags  shako  their  green  ranks,  the  willows  U  nd  their  wide 
boughs  o'er  its  course  ;  and  yonder,  at  last,  the  fair  river 
appears,  spreading  his  bright  waves  to  the  light."* 

For  a  great  portion  of  tho  materials  from  which  this 
book  has  been  prepared,  I  am  indebted  to  the  kindness 
of  many  friends,  all  of  whom  I  could  scarcely  enumerate ; 
but  each  individually  will  please  accept  my  sincere 
thanks.  ^ ,  ^ ,    «.  ^  ,,  '  /   , 

*  Comedy  of  tho  "  Second  Marriage  " 


'.aggj^'jjgU^liBWMt'w 


mnniimii  w"»ifi  I  I  '■ 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER    I. 

Thomas  Jefferson— Declaration  of  American  Independence— Orij?in  of  the 
Movement— Early  Settlers  of  North  Carolina— Character— The  Meck- 
lenburg Resolutions  —  The  Polk  Family— Their  History- Patriotic 
Conduct  during  the  Kevolution  .  .  .17 

CHAPTER    II. 

Birth  of  James  K.  Polk  — His  I'arenti  — Their  Children— Removal  to 
Tennessee— Early  Life  and  Character  of  James— Youthful  Ambition— 
His  Education— Enters  the  University  of  North  Carolina— Character 
as  a  Student — Graduates — Honors  bestowed  upon  him  by  his  Alma 
Mater  ........         86 


';  I 


1  ■: 


CHAPTER    III.         • 

Commonces  the  Study  of  the  Law  in  the  Office  of  Felix  Grundy— Se- 
cures the  Friendship  of  Andrew  Jackson— Admitted  to  the  Bar— Success 
in  the  Practice  of  his  Profession— His  Political  Associations— Stylo  and 
Manner  as  a  Public  Speaker— Chief  Clerk  and  Member  of  the  Ten 
aeswe  Legislature— Duelling  Law— Internal  Improrements— His  Mar- 
riage-Mrs. Polk    .  .  .  .  .  .  45 


:i 


-:  ;* 


J 


ay 


CONTENTS. 


*     .  CHAPTER    IV. 

Chosen.  Member  of  Congrcs-Rcreated  ReelccUons-Opposition  to  Mr 
Adams'  Administration-The  Panama  Mission  and  the  American  Sys- 
tem-Support of  General  Jackson  and  Mr.  Van  Buren-The  Tariff  Ques- 
tion-Internal Improvement^Tho  Pension  Laws-United  States  Bank- 

Independent  Treasury         .  .  ■  •  * 


CHAPTER    V.  , 

Dissensions  in  the  Republican  Party  in  Tennessee-Nomination  of  Judge 
White  for  the  Presideney-Cour.e  of  Mr.  Polk-CUosen  Si^^aker  of  the 
House  of  llepresentativos-Reeleeted-Character  as  a  Presiding  Officer- 
Vote  of  Thanks— FaroweU  Address  •  •  •  • 


CHAPTER    VI. 

Mr  Polk  «.pported  by  the  Democratio  Party  in  Tennessee  as  their  Candi- 
date  for  Govemor-The  Canvass-His  Election- Inaugural  Address- 
Exeeutive  Reoommerdations-His  Administration-A  Candidate  for 
ReSlection— Defeat-State  PoUtiea  •  •  •  • 


CHAPTER    VII. 

PresidentUl  Canvass  of  I&t4-The  Texa.  Questioriv-Letter  of  Mr.  Polk  to 
the  CiUxens  of  Cineinnati-be  Baltimore  Convention-Nomination  of 
Mr  Polk-His  Aceeptanee-Resolutions  of  the  Convention-The  Eloe- 
tion-Roception  at  NashviUe-Joumey  of  the  President  Eleet  to  Wa.h^ 
ington— His  Inauguration— Address  « 


DiMIMIilliMHaMIIM 


luitiairnrtw 


CONTENTS. 


aEv 


•Opposition  to  Mr 
the  American  Sys- 
— The  Tariff  Qucs- 
litcd  States  Bank— 
57 


CHAPTER    VIII.  • 

Position  of  the  President-His  Cabinet-Tho  Washington  Globo  and  Tho 
Union-iMooting  of  Congress-First  Annual  Mossago-Tho  Oregon 
Boundary  Question-History  and  Progress  of  tho  Negotiation-Ultima- 
turn  of  tho  American  Government-Proposition  of  Great  Britain-Con- 
clusion and  Ratifloation  of  a  Treaty 


omination  of  Judge 

oson  Sijoalior  of  tho 

a  Presiding  Officer— 

85 


essoe  as  their  Candi- 

Innugural  Address— 

tt— A  Candidate  for 

100 


Letter  of  Mr.  Polk  to 
ntion— Nomination  of 
ionvention— The  Eloo- 
Bident  Elect  to  Wash- 
.  .        118 


ninaawiit 


>«iM« 


1 


CHAPTER    IX. 

Oijpositionof  Mexico  to  the  Annexation  of  Toxas-The  Question  of  B(»nn- 
dary-American  troops  ordered  to  Toxas-Attfempt  to  Negotiate-Re- 
fusal  to  receive  a  Minister-Advance  of  General  Taylor  to  tho  Rio 
Grande-Commencement  of  IlostiUties-Inoidonts  of  the  war-Repeated 
efforts  to  open  negotiations-Tho  Armistice-Treaty  of  Peace    .       236 

.  CHAPTER    X. 

The  Independent  Treasury-Tariff  of  i»16-Cour3e  in  regard  to  Appoint- 
ments-River and  Harbor  Veto-Second  Annual  Message-Special  Mes- 
sage on  the  Improvement  Bill-Thirtieth  Congress-President's  Mis- 
sage-Rofusal  to  Communicate  Diplomatic  Correspondence-Oregon 
Territorial  Bill-Views  of  Mr.  Polk-ftesidential  Election-Last  Con- 
gress  during  his  administration-Inauguration  of  his  successor.  280 


CHAPTER    XI. 

Return  to  Tennessee-Speech  at  Riohmond-Arrival  Home-Prospects  for 
the  Future-Vanity  of  Human  Hopes  and  ExpecUtions-Hls  Death- 
Funeral  Honors-Personal  Appearance  and  Charaoter-Conolusion     325 


i  I 


iittiii*»iii»mMjiiiiiii«ittiawMijii.:.  ifii«'iii»Li,iiiiMii.«J»W*JM!iB'i,iii|»i^ 


JAMES  1  POLK. 


CHAPTER  I. 

Thomaa  Jeffewon.-Deotoration  of  American  Independotv,  _ori„„  .r*^. 
Movement-Early  Settler,  of  North  Carollna-ChamC^*/  ?' 
lenburg  ResolntionB.  -  The  Polk  Family. -Their  Hi.tnr     *  ^^^' 
Conduct  daring  the  RcTolution  "  "  P^Wotio 

On  the  southwestern  slope  of  MonticeUo,-in  the  ma«* 
of  the  native  forest  hallowed  bj  associations  which  hav! 
protected  It  from  the  faggot  and  the  axe,  and  where  the 
soft  winds  that  disturb  its  solemn  stillness  murmur  cease- 
lessly  of  the  storied  pa8t,-there  stands  a  plain  granite 
obehsk,  loobng  forth  over  the  fair  land,  which  S,  who 
reposes  there  m  the  silence  of  death,  loved  with  the  af! 
ftction  of  a  son,  and  whose  institutions  he  regarded  with 
pecuhar  veneration.    No  heraldic  blazonry  Cbe  ^^ 
nessed  there,-none  of  the  sculptured  pomp  of  woe.    AU 
IS  simple,  chaste,  appropriate-yet  impressive. 

Kead  the  few  lines  graven  upon  this  humble  memento, 
in  remembrance  of  one  who  asked  no  nobler  monument  I 
--The  inscription,  in  brief  but  eloquent  words,  relates  a 
Whole  chapter,  and  that  the  brightest  and  th  proudest 


fcaiWiieiBfels'iaWuJBaill^ 


18 


JAMES    KNOX    I'OLK. 


in  the  life  of  him  whoso  memory  is  t^us  consccrated.-- 
«  Hero  Uea  buried,  Thomas  Jefff.<son,"-so  runs  tho 
Vecord,-"  Author  of  tho  Declara.*on  of  Independence 

This  is  not  merely  tlie  ass^'tion  of  a  claim  to  the 
authorship  of  that  memorabV  document,  which  can  per- 
ish only  with  the  nation  tl^t  it  called  into  e^stence  ; 
but  it  is  also  an  imporfat  historical  fact,  and  one  of 
,vhich  the  party  directlr concerned,  and  those  interested 
in  his  memory,  have  ^i  "ght  to  be  proud.     It  is,  as  it 
were,  the  impartia'  judgment  of  the  recordmg  Muse 
As  sU,  it  will  ue  in  tho  history,  and  be  perpetuated 
in  the  traditioia,  of  the  American  people.     But  neither 
the  Sa.re  o^'^'^onticcllo,  nor  his  most  ardent  admirer, 
ever  chm^^  tl^^t  he  was  the  sole  originator  of  the  great 
movemfv";  to  which  the  Declaration  of  '76  gave  form  and 
subsfci^ce.     Its  germs  were  planted  in  ten  thousand 
he^<8,  long  before  the  resolutions  of  Patrick  Henry 
(unceming  the  Stamp  Act  were  oflFered,  or  his  eloquent 
voice  had  sounded  the  alarm  ;  its  hopes  and  its  impulses 
throbbed  in  ten  thousand  bosoms  long  before  the  chimes 
of  the  old  State-house  bell  in  Philadelphia  proclaimed 
"  liberty  throughout  this  land,  unto  all  the  inhabitants 
thereof ;»  and  they  only  waited  » the  hour  and  the  man 
to  call  them  into  action,  and  give  them  expression. 

Occasions  were  not  wantmg,  when  the  intolerance  of 
oppression,  and  the  stern  resistance  to  tyranny,  which 
were  characteristic  of  the  colonists,  found  utterance  in 
something  more  than  mere  words  and  protestations. 
Such  were  the  opposition  of  Massachusetts,  in  lOSU,  to 
the  commercial  restrictions;  the  refusal  to  surrender 
the  charter  of  Comiecticut  to  Sir  Edmund  Androa ;  the 


1 
t 
t 
a 

d 

V 

ii 

h; 

g' 
ai 

m 

th 

be 

of 

sei 
ca 
of 

tU] 

im 
col 
lefi 
on( 


insecrated. — 
—so  runs  tho 
.ependence '." 
claim  to  the 
hich  can  per- 
to  existence  ; 
t,  and  one  of 
se  interested 
.     It  is,  as  it 
)rding  Muse, 
e  perpetuated 
But  neither 
lent  admirer, 
r  of  the  great 
'ave  form  and 
ten  thousand 
atrick  Henry 
f  his  eloquent 
id  its  impulses 
are  the  chimes 
lia  proclaimed 
;he  inhabitants 

and  the  man" 
pression. 

intolerance  of 
jyranny,  which 
d  utterance  in 

protestations. 
tts,  in  1680,  to 
1  to  surrender 
dAndroa;  the 


EARLY    INHABITANTS   OF   NORTH    CAROLINA.         19 

public  sympathy  evinced  in  New  York,  in  behalf  of 
tiiose  who  were  prosecuted  for  libels  on  Governor  Cosby  • 
Bacon's  rebellion  in  Virginia;  and  the  repeated  efforts 
made  m  the  Carolinas  to  resist  the  oppressions  of  the 
proprietaries.    At  a  later  day,  as  the  time  approached  for 
the  general  outbreak,  its  foreboding  thunders  were  heard 
not  only  among  the  hills  of  New  England,  but  they  were 
echoed  amid  the  leafy  forests  and  luxuriant  savannas  of 
the  sunny  South ;  and  when  the  signal  of  war  was  given 
at  Lexington,  the  citizens  of  Mecklenburg  County,  in  far 
distant  North  Carolina,  assembled  in  Convention,  and 
were  the  first  solemnly  and  deliberately  to  proclaim  their 
independence  of  the  British  crown. 

The  first  settlers  and  inhabitants  of  North  Carolina 
had  conceived  a  strong    "  passion  for  representative 
government;"  they  were  opposed,  alike  from  prejudice 
and  from  principle,  to  excessive  taxation,  to  commercial 
monopolies  and  restrictions,  and  to  any  abridgment  of 
their  political  liberties.     They  were  men.  "who  had 
been  led  to  the  choice  of  their  residence  from  a  hatred 
of  restramt,  and  had  lost  themselves  among  the  woods  in 
search  of  independence.    Are  there  any  who  doubt  man's 
capacity  for  self-government,  let  them  study  the  history 
of  North  Carolina;   its  inhabitants  were  restless  and 
turbulent  m  their  imperfect  submission  to  a  government 
imposed  on  them  from  abroad  ;  the  administration  of  tho 
colony  was  firm,  humane,  and  tranquil,  when  they  were 
left  to  take  care  of  themselves.    Any  govermnent  but 
one  ot  their  own  institution  was  oppressive."* 

•  Banoroft'.  History  of  the  United  StatM,  vol.  ii.,  p.  158. 


-•^S'if.j.im'^-- — — ~ 


20 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1735. 


We  cannot  wonder  that  such  was  the  character  of  tlio 
founders  of  this  colony,  when  wo  inquire  into  their  oji- 
gin.  They  were  the  descendants  and  kinsmen  of  tho 
Scottish  Covenanters;  of  the  men  who,  at  all  times  op- 
posed to  the  exercise  of  arbitrary  authority,  resisted  tho 
tyrannous  measures  of  Charles  I.,  and  set  Cromwell  at 
defiance  ;  of  the  Seceders  of  1741  and  1843,  wlio  would 
not  consent  to  allow  the  right  of  patronage,  or  permit 
the  civil  power  to  interfert)  in  the  affairs  of  the  Church 
endeared  to  them  by  the  associations  of  infancy,  and  tho 
recollections  of  age.  They  sprung,  in  great  part,  from 
tho  Scottish  colonists  who  emigrated  to  Ireland  under  tho 


ausp 


IOCS 


of  James  I.,  and  settled  there  to  disseminate 
the'rcforuu'd  religion,  "for  conscience  sake." 

From  Iiolaiul,  tlie  Scotch-Irish  Presbyterians  journey- 
ed across  the  Atlantic,  in  search  of  the  freedom  in  mat- 
ters of  religion  wliieh  had  been  denied  to  them  at  home. 
Pilgrims  in  quest  of  "  a  faith's  pure  shrine,"— where  he 
who  ministered  lu  holy  things  should  be  the  fixithfiil  and 
devoted  servant  of  his  God,  and  not  the  miserable  de- 
pendent on  royal  favor,— they  braved  persecution  and 
danger,  the  perils  of  the  sea  and  of  the  land,  to  erect 
their  standard  and  practice  their  creed,  unquestioned  of 
man,  amid  the  solitudes  of  the  Western  World.  Not  in 
vain  were  these  trials  undergone,  or  these  perils  encoun- 
tered. Their  patient  endurance  was  rewaided  by  tho 
discovery  of  the  object  which  they  earnestly  longed  to  se- 
cure. They  planted  the  groves  and  the  orchards,  whose 
rich  fruitage  has  blessed  and  cheered  their  posterity. 

"  They  have  left  unstained  what  there  they  found,— 
Freedom  to  worship  God!" 


I 

i 
a 

t( 

S 
tl 
til 
of 

bil 

thi 


"'iiiif.. 


ii»Miin«iji;«iiwwa<itW!!wavL!-!,iji.<^  •• 


■^■)(f*aw<'>'n!!>;.i 


"■'■■■BS^r' 


[1735. 

racter  of  tlio 
ito  their  ojri- 
ismen  of  tlio 
all  times  op- 
,  resisted  tlio 
Cromwell  at 
3,  wlio  would 
re,  or  permit 
f  the  Cliurch 
incy,  and  the 
at  part,  from 
md  under  the 
J  disseminate 
, » 

•ians  journoy- 
ledoin  in  nuit- 
heiii  at  lionu!. 
I," — where  ho 
e  fixithful  and 
miserable  de- 
rsecution  and 
land,  to  erect 
aqviestioned  of 
orid.  Not  in 
perils  encoun- 
rai'ded  by  the 
y  longed  to  se- 
•chards,  whose 
r  posterity. 

ound, — 


1735.J 


EMIGRATION   FROM   IRELAND. 


About  the  year  1735,  or  shortly  thereafter   ih. 

■anui.,,,  .1,0  pn  ;:,■  aJJzZu'Zz  "°T  r 

,>y  a  counter  tide  of  emi.rn  r   T  '      ^,    ?  '^'''^"^ 

course  southward,  and  were  speedilyC  hrcl  T" 
Pa««mg  on,  they  met  the  southern  tide  iJ.K  '^  '' 

turned  westward   tn  *I.       ., ,  "'''^"  ^'^^^  ^n^  the  stream 

.-^  Me  trit  '°:*"'i:„'°"«'''"™ "  '*- 

«ed  the  wilderne,™  pTnlfe  ZT'"  '■  "^  *"  '"■ 
«...  built  churcha.  f^rpZ  ^17/"".?.'°'''"''' 

•PVwto'i  Sketch*  of  North  Cwunm  ,1 188. 


i^vaajJ'-'i**"""'" 


i 


22 


jAMEi  KNOX   POLK. 


[1775 


.  .„»m.n  devoted  to  the  Whig  c»Me,-tl.»t  tlu-vo 

:r  nt  l;:«,»  u  the..  T.,.t  .„ ». «.  c«. 
"Ch  C..L  trrr-S""—  •- 

:-2rCtr;rru^^^^^^^^^ 

ed,  opportunities  .0.  ''--f '(/«»  ^    '    ^c,  of 
of  their  vindiolive  p»8..oM.'        1"  •*«  '»".     „„,i„ei„l 
North  Carolin.,  .ito  the  ''^P'"'''"' ^^^r,™. 
.  „.»,lv  »11  the  inhabitunU  were  infeetcd  mm  loj 

ponderance  oi  v\  nigs-  „„^„ro  waa  incessantly 

U  a  fiere.  .nd  "»'*»';°^':^re.r,el  .t  home', 
rmi«?Ttrrctr:«r Irefe™  »n.Me  to 
the  Whig.  »'  "°™        .      f„,  ^„i„e  in  distant  bco- 

'r°  rZc^^^T'^  ■«  -"»'"• '"  J""'r' "" 

tioMof  *«  ConteaerKj ,  ,  i„edathome, 

-^^-•r«^:"«:st;the.ed. 

In  the  mountain  di.tnct »'  "°™  ;. 

„f  independ^iee  were  -'y^^™;."'^*.^,^!  re- 

"^rrlTre-'il^^'^^^--'^"  «'" 


1\ 

wi 

El 

foi 

N( 

pn 

fcr 

Jon 

Ca 

inci 

'I'll. 

rcili 

scl, 

otisi 

sicp 

A 

iigro 

a  .su 

Oolo 

the 

aiul  ] 

con  VI 

it  she 

roprci 

hy  th 

co'uns' 

»  Thi 

New  Yo 
nios  of  r 
torocasio 
Carol  inn 
oliua,  p 


[1775. 

it  tbero 
lie  case, 
her  sis- 
all,  with 
jnerally, 

"  Being 
the  two 
rradually 

and  had 
tno  a  war 
triuinph- 
B  exercise 
ouiitics  of 
provincial 
.  with  loy- 
reat  a  prc- 
,68,  or  fac- 
.ncessantly 
i  at  home, 

unable  to 
listant  sec- 
justice,  bo 
;d  at  home, 
■operty  and 
s._ 

a,  the  seeds 
soon  germi- 

remote  re- 
rho  watched 


1775.J  THE   MfcCKLENBURO   MEETING.  £3 

.        ^ith  eager  anxiety  the  progress  of  the  controversy  in  tho 
Eastern  provnce«.     The  Boston  Port  Bill,  and  the  a 
for  restnetu.«  the  commerce  of  the  colo;ies,-thou;i 
North  Carohna  with  New  York,  was  excepted  frltt 
p.w..s,ons  of  the  ]atter,*-wero  not  viewed  with  L 

-ce.     Frequent  public  meetings  were  held  in  Me    . 
-burg  county,  then  embracing  the  present  coun  y  of 
Cabarrus,  m  the  spring  of  1775,  at  which  the  tyran.^e. 
H^ures  of  tho  HHtish  government  were  freely  .Lus  e 
1   osewlK.  partu-ipated  in  these  discussions  were  so  e 

«cl,  yet  linn  a.  the.r  native  hills,  „„,1  who.e- patri- 
ot.s.n  was  as  real  and  as  .pure  as  the  virgin  gold  tit 
slept  undi«turbed  beneath  tl>em.  ^     ^ 

As  the  result  of  their   .h-liberations,    it   was  finallv 

agreed  ''that  TnoM.s  P.,,.,,  Colon.l  of  ho  ,Ji  L  To  ^ 

asunx,.oH 

Co  o,.„l  A         ,,,^,    „,,,,  j^,,^,^^._^  .^__^,  ^^^_^j 

the   surroun.hng  eoun.ies,   a   , of  great  excellen 

and  mented  populanty,  shoul.l  he  eu.p^vered  to  S" 
convo  t.on  of  the  representatives  <,f  t!.e  people,  whe      e 
It  should  appear  advisable.    It  was  also  agreed  that  tie 
opresentat.ves  should  be  chosen  from  the  militia  distrit 
by  the  people  themselves  ;     and  that  when  assembled^ 
counsel  and  debate,  their  decision  should  he  binding  on 

CaroIi„a.-See  Jones'  llTZ;    HI  eH  "^   •  ™"''  ""  '"'"""''  "^  ^orth 
oliiia.p  152.ot«q      ''"''"""  "'^  •"«  ""^"'""''"'"•y  History  of  North  C«w 


jamils  knux  polk. 


[1775. 


the  inhabitanta  of  Mecklenburg."*  Tlic  proclamation  of 
Governor  Martin,  the  last  royal  governor,  dissolving  the 
last  provincial  assembly  that  met  in  North  Carolina,  be- 
cause its  members  could  not  be  rendered  subservient  to 
his  wishes,  which  was  issued  on  the  Hth  of  April,  and  the 
consoiiuent  excitement,  seemed  to  present  the  emergency 
contemplated  by  the  citizens  of  Mecklenburg. 

Accordingly,  Colonel  Polk  issued  his  sinnmons  calling 
upon  tho  comnnttee-men  to  assemble  in  Charlotte,  the 
county  town,  on  the  lUth  day  of  May,  1775.     Promptly 
obeying  the  call,  between  twenty  and  thirty  of  the  most 
respectable  and  inlbiential  citizens  of  Mecklenburg,  being 
tho  delegates  chosen  in  the  several  districts,  met  in  coun- 
cil at  the  appointed  time.     The  occasion,  also,  called  to- 
gether a  large  concourse  of  citizens,  who  did  not  directly 
participate  in  the  proceedinjrs,  a' though  heartily  concur- 
ring* in  them.      Of  this  conveition  Abraham  Alexan- 
der was  made  chairman,  nnd  J.  m  MeKnitt  Alexander 
officiated  as  clerk.    Aftir  tlu-  ovj:  mization  was  completed, 
papers,  brought  by  express  that  day,  were  rend  m  the 
presence  of  tho  assembled  multitude,  announcu.g  that 
the  first  blood  of  the  Rovolution  had  been  shed  at  Lex- 
ington. ■    1    r- 

The  effect  of  this  announcement  was  electrical,  i^very 
pulse  throbbed  hijrh  >mi1.  patriotism, -every  heart  swell^ 
od  with  honest  hidignaU...,;  One  general  cry  was  raised 
in  favor  of  declaring  themselves  forever  independent  ot  a 
government  that  paid  t.o  heed  to  t!>eir  just  comphunts, 
and  sought  to  chastise  them  into  submission.  Resolu- 
tions tantamount  to  a  declaration  of  independence,  pre- 
pured  by  Dr.  Epl.vaim  Brovi.rd,  wore  then  read  to  the 

♦  foote'i  Sk«tehe»,  p.  34. 


Ci 
au 
kill 
als 

,'('!, 

(lie 

Jll'C 

a  SI 

tlu. 

erc(.' 

Kin^ 

Jiow 

A  iiri( 

ill  til 

ti'ctic 

ihviwi 

At 

liiiii,  I 

Iioiise, 

time  8 

the  lea 

as  loii^ 

iiill,  I  , 

not  tho 

Olio  ni^ 

coiisulti 

iiig  daj 

Allt] 


[1776. 

atiun  of 
\i\i\g  tho 
Una,  bc- 
•vU'iit  to 
and  tho 
lorgeiicy 

IS  culling 
otte,  tlio 
Promptly 
the  moHt 
rg,  being 
;  in  coun- 
callt'd  to- 
t  directly 
f  concur- 
Alcxan- 
Uexandcr 
ompleted, 
nd  in  the 
cing  that 
I  at  Lex- 

al.  Every 
?art  swell- 
[vas  raiced 
ident  of  a 
omphiinta, 
Resolu- 
lence,  pre- 
^ad  to  the 


1775.J 


PROCEEDlNfti. 


'^'«'  nmde  by  tl.o    .e,  I  ;  7;,!'' '"'""'.^  «P«^«''-  ^-e 
«'"tlenien.     All  t\u  \  com,,„tteo  and  other 

"'^'  "  it.'«uIutor  j'  by  Gove  It  '^'''  'f^'^' -^ 

^•'•<'i'Iv,  inlTTl    tL.J  ,r  '0»",  on   Alamance 

-y  1  ul  b     .ll    :,''""  ""r  "'''"'  -'-  »f  the  col. 

---.it,::;;;r-;!u::rrr 
't^r';;;;:l:;--^".'•^^'''«^''''"^^ 

''-wn,u.ie,i:;::::::;;'''''"''''-''^'""-- 
i'i.^'by:c::i,;!;:;:r'r^^^^^^^^ 

tin.e  ivin  -1';  I   ?  ,""  ""•"'':'-"^'  -d  at  the  sa.e 

'''^•'---tinJ   :::::*;:^-'';^-'o„gas 

-^  '-g  as  the  leaves  cont   ":      «"'","'  \''''  -*'« 

>'<-t  thonght  ndvinaMo  hastily  to  come  to  „  1  .  ■  ''"' 
^>"o  night  was  therefore  giv^for  furH  '^'T'"!'"^'-"- 
consultation,  and  the  CoJT  ,.^'"'^^'''  '"-'^''^^'ou  and 
i..g  clay  at  ,.00"  "'"  '^'j'^"''"^*^  *'"  ^^e  follow- 

All  that  night  long,  and  during  the  following  monung, 


8 


•  Foote'g  SketohM,  p.  87. 


26 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1775. 


the  town  of  Charlotte  presented  a  strange  scene  of  3X- 
citement.    The  step  proposed  to  be  taken  was  the  great 
theme  of  discussion.    Grave  men  deliberated  upon  it  in 
the  privacy  of  their  homes ;  while  their  juniors  collected 
in  groups  at  the  corners  of  the  streets,  to  interchange 
their  sentiments  with  mere  freedom,  and  with  greater 
earnestness.     When  the  time  arrived  for  the  reJissem- 
bling  of  the  Convention,  the  decision  at  which  all  had 
arrived,  might  have  been  read  in  the  kindling  eye  and 
the  firmly-compressed  lip.     The  people  had  collected 
in  still  greater  numbers  from  the  surrounding  country ; 
and  not  the  least  interested  among  the  spectators,  were 
the  'vives  and  mothers  of  many  of  those  who  were  fore- 
most at  this  crisis,  and  who  came  there  to  encourage  their 
husbands  and  sOns  by  their  kind  words,  and  to  cheer 
them  with  their  smiles. 

The  resolutions  of  Dr.  Brevard,  as  amended  by  the 
committee,  were  again  read  amid  the  most  profound  still- 
ness. One  universal  "aye"  was  the  response  of  the 
Convention;  and  after  the  adjournment,  Colonel  Polk, 
from  the  court-house  steps,  read  to  the  intensely-excited 
crowd  that  gathered  round  him,  the  following  resolutions 
embodying  the  Declaration  of  Independence : 

THE  MECKXEKBCRO  DECLARATION. 

«  1st.  Resolved,  That  whosoever  directly  or  indirectly  abet- 

ted  or  in  any  way,  form,  or  manner,  countenanced  the  un- 

ch^red  and  dangerous  invasion  of  our  rights,  as  claimed 

.by  Great  Britain,  is  an  enemy  to  this  country— to  America— 

'and  to  the  inherent  and  inalienable. rights  of  man. 

«'  2d   Bmlwi,  That  we,  the  citizens  of  Mecklenburg  Coun- 


17 

ty, 

ncc 

selv 
poll 

inhii 
it 

und 
sovei 

of   ill 

govci 

iiKJej; 

cocipf 

honor 

"4 

Pace  f 

Milhin 

rule  o; 

n  evert 

siderec 

tlicrein 

"5tl 

and  evi 

in  liis  f 

bly  to 

of  this 

Justice 

man,'  t 

controvi 

peace,  u 

exertion 

through 

emment 


[1775. 

ene  of  3X- 
s  the  great 
upon  it  in 
•9  collected 
nterchango 
th  greater 
e  reiissem- 
ch  all  had 
ag  eye  and 
1  collected 
g  country ; 
ators,  were 
I  were  fore- 
mrage  their 
id  to  cheer 

ided  by  the 
jfound  still- 
anse  of  the 
jlonel  Polk, 
sely-excited 
T  resolutions 


directly  abet- 
nced  the  un- 
;s,  as  claimed 
to  America — 
n. 
enburg  Coun- 


1775.] 


THE    MKCKLENBURG    HECI.AK  4TI0N. 


27 


3d.  liesolvcd,  That  we  do  hpr..I». ,]/  i  i-<-\"ig'"ii. 

ov„o,,„  „„d  ..|,>vc,,,i„s  A.„e«i„„r  ™,    °  L  CO     , 
of  no  power  „tl,,,  ||,„„  ,|,„i  „f  '^  """o 

Bov,.r,„„,,„t  of  ,I,e  (.„„„,c<,  ■  ,„  „,  ',  '"""'■'^ 

...ltd  t:;:vrjr,:.;;  s--'* "'°  -'"■ 

;*.  «» CO..      J:J--*-j  ;;-^^ 

:.'::Mr;,r:o::'o7r:tx;r=''»''"- 

•acred  .s  holding  riWUs  „„vi'.  '"™  ™ ''"  "''■ 


28 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1775. 


Loud  cheers  and  other  tokens  of  approbation  foll(>wtd 
the  public  reading  of  the  resolutions  by  Colonel  Polk ; 
i,nd  when  the  people  separated  to  return  to  their  homes, 
their  countenances  and  their  actions  indicated  that  they 
were  well  pleased  with  what  had  been  done. 

The  authenticity  of  the  Mecklenburg  Declaration  was 
for  a  long  time  questioned.  The  resolutions  were  pub- 
lished in  the  Cape  Fear  Mercury,  and  were  character- 
ized by  Governor  Martin,  in  a  proclamation  issued  on 
the  8th  day  of  August,  1775,  as  "  a  most  infamous  pub- 
lication, •  *  •  *  importing  to  be  the  resolves  of  a  set 
of  people  styling  themselves  a  committee  for  the  county 
of  Mecklenburg,  most  traitorously  declaring  the  entire 
dissolution  of  th%  laws,  government,  and  constitution  of 
this  country,  and  setting  up  a  system  of  rule  and  regula- 
tion repugnant  to  the  laws  and  subversive  of  His  Majesty's 
government."*  Copies  of  them  were  likewise  dispatched, 
by  a  special  messenger,  to  the  delegates  of  North  Caro- 
lina in  the  Continental  Congress,  who  approved  of  them 
in  sentiment,  but  thought  the  step  premature,  and  there- 
fore did  not  present  them  to  the  body  of  which  they  were 
members,  as  they  were  requested  to  do. 

Yet,  from  the  local  character  of  these  proceedings, 
they  did  not  attract  public  attention  to  as  great  a  degree 
as  they  would  otherwise  have  done,  and  consequently  no 
mention  was  made  of  them  in  the  histories  of  Ramsay 
and  Marshall.  Mr.  Jefferson,  in  a  letter  written  in  July, 
1819,  in  reply  to  one  received  from  John  Adams  refer- 
ring to  an  account  of  the  Mecklenburg  declaration  then 

•  Jone«' Defence,  p.  185. 


1775 

recen 
•  The 
of  th« 
Caroli 
revolu 
were  f 
late  ar 
burg  d 
once  to 
publish 
1831; 
subscqi] 
burg  pr 

Mr. 

longer  I 

county  ^ 

tlie  prov 

in  Congr 

colonies  i 

Sfiry  to  c 

to  render 

one  of  he 

the  playfi 

sively  sho 

will  not  d 

augiit  froi 

*  Jefferson': 

t  'Mockleiih 

""iiIeriliiMiml 

'^SI  ;  Jones'  1 

p.  204,  vt  seq. 

t  Jounml  of 

§  See  liitroUi 


[1775. 

on  foll<>wed 
onel  Polk ; 
heir  homes, 
d  that  they 

aration  was 
I  were  pub- 
!  character- 
i  issued  on 
amous  pub- 
Ivcs  of  a  set 
■  the  county 
;  the  entire 
QStitution  of 
and  regula- 
is  Majesty's 
dispatched, 
^orth  Caro- 
red  of  them 
,  and  there- 
sh  they  were 

proceedings, 
eat  a  degree 
sequently  no 
of  Ramsay 
tten  in  July, 
idams  refer- 
laxation  then 


1775.J  MH.    JEFFEKSON   MISTAKEN. 


» 


of  the  writer,  <<i-f.nft.fi  «„    -j      . ,     ^  "'®  decease 

late  and  .Lt  "he'd    JT    ? ."'  "'"  ""•«  "  "''- 
e"co  to  the  mhZlT^t   "^""»»»y''«'ing  rcfer- 

tl'o  province  itselfTvas  1  fi   !T  '"^^'P^'ulence,  as 

i"  Congress  "  to  c  tithT  fr"  ''^'^  '^'^-^^- 
eoionies  in  declaring  Inde;:l: ^^^^^^^^^^^^^  ;;!'^'  -"- 
y  to  calumniate  the  memory  of  Mr  Iff  """'''" 
to  render  justice  to  IVf^rfl,  n      ,  Jefferson  m  order 

*«  P^fui  tone  otli,  I  tor"  M;"rr'"""^  "•  « 

si'olj  shows.    The  triHh  „      r  °"  "°"  ~»«1"- 

«ili  ..ot  deprive  hi!?  „       ,    '.'"■"'  "  °"'"  ■'  '"J  ""'t 


,M^..i.iM  ■■jni]W'-'i.-'   '>-'M  ^--iv*"  ■"' 


mi-^WP^VW^T' 


80 


JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


[1775. 


Among  the  most  active  participants  in  the  Mocklcn- 
bni-   prcceedings,  were   Thomas   Polk  and  Ezekik.l 
Polk,  the  former  of  whom  resided  in  the  immediate  vi- 
cinity of  Charlotte,  and  the  latter  hi  thfc  neighhcv.ug 
province  of  South  Carolina,  just  over  the  horder.     TWy, 
.vith  otlier  prominent  and  influential  men,  appeared  to 
take  the  lead  in  the  movement,  and  their  opinions  and 
their  action  had  great  weight  with  their  fellow-c.tizeus. 
«  Tradition  aserihes  to  Tiion.as  Polk  the  principal  agency 
in  bi-ingiu"  about  tlie  Declaration  ;"t  nnd  it  is  said  that 
an  old  resident  of  Ni.rth  Carolina,  a  Scotchman,  being 
asked  if  he  knew  auything  in  relation  to  the  matter,  re- 
p]i,,a_"  Oc/i,   or,  'I' AM   Polk   dainnd   Independence 
Ian (rbef ore  anifbody  else! ^''l  .,         , 

l\e  two  Polks  were  brothers  ;    and  the  Alexanders 
the  chairman  and  clerk  of  the  Mecklenburg  meeting,  and 
Dr.  Brevard,  the  author  of  the  resolutions,  were  then- 
near  relatives.     Thomas  Polk  was  the  great  uncle,  and 
Ezekiel  Polk  the  grandfather,  of  Jamks  K.  Polk  the 
late  President  of  the  United  States.     The  founder  of  the 
Polf  family  in  America'was  Robert  Polk.    His  ancestors 
were  of  Scotch  origin.     They  were  among  the  colonist^ 
who  settled  in  Ireland,  and  the  family  name  is  obviously 
the  Irish  corruption  of  Pollock.     Robert  Polk  was  born 
in  Ireland,  and  was  the  fifth  son  of  Robert  Po  k  the 
elder,  a  native  of  the  same  country,  who  married  Magda- 
1.,,  T«.^ker,  the  heiress  of  a  considerable  estate 

Robert  Polk,  the  younger,  married  a  Miss  Gullet,  by 

•  Mecklenburg  Declaration  and  Accompanyu.g  Dociunonts,  p^l6. 
tW  Defence,  p.  295.  t  Mecklenburg  Declaration,  kc.  p.  26. 


[1775. 


[775.] 


THE    POLK    FAMILY. 


31 


in  the  Mecklcn- 
K  and  EzKKii'.r-  . 
ic  immediate  vi- 
tlife  iieigldKiriii}^ 
3  border.  'I'liey, 
tien,  appeared  to 
leir  opinions  and 

•  follow-citizens.* 
■  principal  agency 
Hid  it  is  said  that 
Scotcliman,  being 
to  the  matter,  re- 
n:d   Indepvndeiicc 

I  tlie  Alexanders, 
burg  meeting,  and 
utions,  were  tlieir 
!  great  uncle,  and 
IKS  K.  Polk,  the 
The  founder  of  tlic 
)lk.  His  anci-'stors 
mong  the  colonisti|i^^ 
name  is  obviously 
lert  Polk  was  born 

•  Robert  Polk  the 
ho  married  Magda- 
ble  estate. 

I  a  Miss  Gullet,  by 


Dociunonts,  p.  Mi. 
Declaration,  kc,  p.  26. 


whom  he  had  several  cliiidren  ;  an<l  among  them  were 
Tliomas  and  Ezekiel  Polk.  Soon  after  his  marriase — 
probably  between  1735  and  1740— he  removed  to  Amer- 
ica with  others  of  the  Scotch  Irish  immigrants,  and  cstab- 
lislied  liimself  in,  Sonlorset  County,  on  tlie  Eastern  Shore 
of  Maryland.  Some  of  his  desccndtints  are  still  to  bo 
fund  in  that  state;  and  they  were  known  for  many 
years,  in  Somerset,  as  the  repu])lican,  or  democratic  fam- 
ily, because  they  were  the  only  persons  in  the  comity 
occupying  prominent  po:-itions  in  society,  whose  political 
sentiments  were  of  that  complexion.  Other  members  of 
tlie  family,  including  Thomas,  Ezekiel,  and  Charlea 
Polk,  followed  the  current  of  emigration  which  swept 
onwafd  to  the  base  of  the  Alleghanies,  and  located  tem- 
porarily in  the  neighborhood  of  Carlisle,  in  Pennsylvania. 
From  thence  the  three  brothers,  Thomas,  Ezekiel,  and 
Ciiarles,  removed  to  the  southwestern  frontier  of  North 
Carolina,  about  the  year  1750,  and  settled  in  the  county 
(if  Mecklenburg,  then  a  part  of  Anson  county,  in  the  rich 
champaign  country  watered  on  the  one  hand  by  the  noble 
Yadkii*,  and  on  the  other  by  the  romantic  Catawba. 
Ezekiel  subsequently  changed  liis  residence  to  South 
Carolina. 

Tlie  citizens  of  Mecklenburg  county  were  not  unmind- 
ful of  the  pledges  they  had  given,  mutually  among  each 
other,  to  maintain,  at  every  hazard,  the  independence 
which  they  had  declared ;  and  when  the  tide  of  war  rolled 
thitherward,  and  their  borders  i^rere  harried  with  fire  and 
sword,  they  remained  firm  and  steadfast  in  their  adher- 
ence to  the  cause  they  had  espoused.  In  the  contest  for 
independence  the  Polks    were  especially  conspicuous. 


'.     IB? 


-; 


i 


82 


JAMK8    KNOX   POLK. 


[1776. 


Thomas  being  the  eldest,  he  was  naturally  looked  up  to  as 
the  head  of  the  family,  and  was  put  forward  more  promi- 
nently :  he  was  a  delegate  to  the  Provincial  Congress, 
colonel  of  the  second  battalion  of  minute-men  raised  in 
Salisbury  district,  the  commanding  officer  of  the  militia 
of  Mecklenburg  county,  and  afterwards  colonel  of  the 
fourth  North  Carolina  regiment  in  the  Continental  ser- 
vice. But  Ezekiel  was  not  a  whit  behind  his  brother  in 
zeal  and  devotion ;  his  support  of  the  cause  was  as  earnest 
and  disinterested,  his  attachment  to  it  as  honest  and  sin- 
cere. In  May,  1775,  he  received  a  captain's  commission 
from  the  authorities  of  South  Carolina,  upon  the  recom- 
mendation of  the  Provincial  Congress,  and  immediately 
thereafter  raised  a  volunteer  company  of  Rangers,  who 
were  employed  against  the  Cherokee  Indians  and  the  To- 
ries. So  faithfully  did  he  execute  the  duties  required 
of  him,  that  he  became  particularly  obnoxious  to  the  lat- 
ter, and  when  the  country  was  overrun  by  Cornwallis 
and  his  troops,  he  found  it  necessary  to  "  take  protec- 
tion," in  order  to  save  himself,  his  family  and  his  prop- 
erty, from  their  vengeance. 

Charlotte  and  the  adjacent  country  had  long  been  re- 
garded by  the  British  officers  in  command  at  the  South, 
as  the  harboring-place  of  "traitors  and  rebels;"  and 
when  the  Whigs  of  the  lower  counties  in  the  two  Caroli- 
nas  were  forced  to  flee  before  the  myrmidons  of  Rawdon 
and  Tarleton,  they  were  sure  to  be  welcomed  here  with 
open  hands  and  hearts.  After  the  disastrous  battle  of 
Camden,  in  1780,  Lord  Cornwallis  established  the  head- 
quarters of  his  army  at  Charlotte,  which  he  termed  the 
"hornet's  nest,"  and  "the  hotbed  of  rebellion."    He 


ti 


T^w^ 


iin»|iriii'wiii>|-e«i 


[1775. 

T  looked  up  to  as 
ard  more  promi- 
incial  Congress, 
e-men  raised  in 
r  of  the  militia 
I  colonel  of  the 
Continental  ser- 
id  his  brother  in 
!e  was  as  earnest 

honest  and  sin- 
lin's  commission 
ipon  the  recom- 
iid  immediately 
f  Rangers,  who 
ans  and  the  To- 
duties  required 
xious  to  the  lat- 
I  by  Cornwallis 

"  take  protec- 
y  and  his  prop- 

.d  long  been  re- 
d  at  the  South, 
d  rebels;"  and 
the  two  Caroli- 
lons  of  Rawdon 
lomed  here  with 
itrous  battle  of 
lished  the  head- 
he  termed  the 
ebellioQ.'^    He 


1775.J 


OUTRAGES   OF   THE   TORIES. 


83 


quartered  his  troops  in  the  dwellings  of  its  inhabitants, 
and  fed  them  on  the  provisions  and  supplies  forcibly 
taken  from  their  stores. 

A  dark  cloud  seemed  at  this  moment  to  obscure  the  for- 
tunes  of  America.     Nearly  all  the  states  south  of  the 
Potomac  were  overrun  by  the  royal  troops,  and  their 
Tory  allies  were  murdering  and  pillaging  with  impunity. 
'  Tiie  British  army  was  chiefly  subsisted  by  plundering 
the  Whigs,  and  a  system  of  confiscation  was  adopted  to 
transfer  their  real  estate  to  their  Tory  neighbors  by  forced 
sales,  the  meagre  proceeds  of  which  went  into  the  military 
fthest.    Stimulated  by  revenge  and  encouraged  by  exam- 
ple, it  is  not  surprising  that  the  Tories  filled  the  country 
with  rapine  and  blood.    The  farms  of  Whigs  supposed  to 
be  in  arms,  were  ravaged,  their  houses  rifled  and  burned, 
and  their  wives  and  children  turned  out  to  perish,  or  sub- 
sist on  charity,  which  dared  not  let  the  left  hand  know 
what  the  right  hand  did,  lest  it  should  be  punished  as  a 
crime.     If  a  husband  and  father  ventured  to  look  after 
his  houseless  flock,  he  was  waylaid  and  murdered.     Pris- 
oners were  hanged  or  shot  down  in  cold  blood,  and  even 
members  of  the  same  famiUes  became  the  unrelenting  ex- 
ecutioners of  each  other.  *  •  *  The  laws  were  literally 
silent,  and  there  werp  no  courts  to  protect  property  or 
punish  crime.    Men  hunted  each  other  like  beasts  of  prey, 
and  the  savages  were  outdone  in  cruelties  to  the  living 
and  indignities  on  the  dead."* 

It  was  in  this  hour  of  gloom,  that  many  of  the  best  and 
truest  patriots  in  the  land  «  took  protection,"  as  it  was 

*  Kendall'i  Life  of  JaokMD,  pp.  42, 44. 


m 


84 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1780. 


called,  of  the  invader.     This  .vub  not  in  tl.c  nature  of  an 
oath  Jf  allegiance,  but  Bin.ply  a  pledge  not  to  n.deH 
I5,.itiHh  troops  ^vhi}e  occupyh.g  a  pavt.cular  seetion  «t  t lo 
country,  in  consideration  ^vhereof,  protection  .vas  to  bo 
an-uvd/d  against  the  Tories,  and  the  Hpohations  of  fovag- 
i,„  parties.     It  .a.  never  considered  to  bo  an  ,.  peach - 
„;;:„t  of  a  man's  fidelity  to  tho  colonial  cause,  that  ho 
»  took  protection  ;"  it  Avas  often  done,  in  an  emergency, 
fvom  the  best  of  „iotives,-the  safety  of  one's  fannly  and 
home ;  it  y^-as  done  by.  the  noble  martyr  Hayne,  and  no 
lin  l-ests  on  his  memory.     Indeed,  it  .as  the  highest 
evidence  of  patriotism,  for  no  one  suspected  even  of  a 
leanhig  towards  Toryism  needed  to  "  take  protection. 

The  citizens  of  Mecklenburg  county  and  tho  adjacen 
country,  were  the  first  to  renounce  their  allegiance  and 
decWe  themselves  forever   independent  of  the   Bnti.h 
crown.     To  that  declaration  they  adhered  m  and  through 
all      They  "  took  protection,"  it  is  true,  when  the  loot 
of  the  victorious  Biiton  was  planted  upon  their  hearth 
stones      But  they  never  despaired  of  the  republic,-the.y 
r:  falt-ed  i/theh-  faith:  and  one  of  the  ablest  and 
most  untiring  of  their  persecutors  has  borne  wihng  and 
"opeated  tesfimony  to  the  fact,  that  iheir  patriotism,  from 
'      first  to  last,  was  ardent  and  Bincerp.* 

*  Turloton's  Campaign  of  1780  and  1781    p.  f'/^^-^''  ■'^" 
Stcudmau's  HiBtor/  of  tho  American  War,  vol.  u.  p.  217,  ct  seq. 


> 


his 


mm* 


w<*»wi|pwiiw*»i!>w»(»jw8wVrr  mil 


[1780. 
nature  of  on 

0  HloU'Ht  tllO 

cction  of  tlio 
in  •was  to  bo 
)n8  of  fovag- 
an  impoacli- 
U8C,  that  lio 
n  emorgt-'Ticy, 
's  family  and 
ayne,  and  no 
,8  tlie  highest 
ed  even  of  a 
protection." 

1  the  adjacent 
illegiance  and 
f  the  Brititih 
m  and  through 

wlicn  the  foot 
a  their  hcartli 
epublic,— they 

the  ablest  and 
■ne  -willing  and 
atriotism,  from 


et  geq.— S<'<",  al«'i 
17,  et  seq. 


) 


CHAPTER  II.  : 

Birth  of  James  K.  Polk-Hia  Parenti-Their  Children-Removal  to  Ten- 
newee-Early  Life  and  Character  of  James-Youthful  Ambition-Hia 
Ednoation-Enters  the  University  of  North  Carolina-Character  as  a 
Student-Graduates-IIonors  bestowed  upon  him  by  his  Alma  Mater. 

James  Knox  Polk  was  born  in  Mecklenburg  County, 
North  Carolina,  on  the  second  day  of  November,  1795, 
and  was  the  oldest  of  ten  children.  His  father  was 
Samuel  Polk,  a  son  of  Ezekiel  Polk,  before  mentioned. 
His  mother  was  Jane  Knox,  the  daughter  of  James  Knox, 
after  whom  her  oldest  son  was  named,  a  resident  of 
Iredell  County,  North  Carolina,  and  a  Captain  in  the 
war  of  the  Revolution. 

His  parents  were  married  in  1794.  Besides  the  late 
President,  they  had  five  sons  and  four  daughters.  Three 
of  the  latter  are  now  living.  Of  the  sons,'  Marshall  T. 
married  and  settled  in  North  Carolina,  and  died  there ; 
Franklin,  John,  and  Samuel  W.,  all  died  unmarried ; 
and  William  H.,  appointed  by  President  Tyler,  in  1845,  - 
Charg6  d'Affaires  to  the  Kingdom  of  the  Two  Sicilies, 
and  a  major  of  the  8d  dragoons  daring  the  war  with 
Mexico,  now  resides  in  Columbia,  Tennessee. 

Samuel  Polk,  the  father,  was  a  plain,  unpretending 
farmer,  but  of  enterprising  character;  from  necessity 
and  inclination,  frugal  in  his  habits  and  style  of  living, 
yet  kind  and  generous  in  disposition.  «  Thrown  upon 
his  own  resources  in  early  life,  he  became  the  architect  of 


J 


JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


[180G. 


his  own  fortunes."*  Immediately  after  the  close  of  tlio 
Revolution,  a  strong  tide  of  emigration  set  in  from 
Mecklenburg  and  the  adjoining  counties,  and  llowiii;,' 
over  the  Mountains,  rolled  down  upon  the  ranges  of 
grassy  hills,  the  undulating  plains,  the  extensive  reaches 
of  grazing  land,  and  the  fertile  valleys  of  Tennessee. 
Attracted  by  the  glowing  accounts,  given  by  the  fust 
settlers  and  adventurers,  of  the  beautiful  daughter  of  his 
native  state,  Samuel  Polk  formed  a  determination  to  re- 
move thither  with  his  family  ;  and  if  honesty  of  purpose, 
enterprise  and  industry,  could  accomplish  iln'.'  end,  to 
achieve  a  competence  for  himself,  and  tlioso  flrho  looked 
up  to  him  for  support  and  protection.  , 

From  one  cause  or  another  the  fulfilment  of  his  design 
was  postponed  till  the  autumn  of  the  year  180G,  when, 
accompanied  by  his  wife  and  oliildren,  he  followed  the 
now  well-trodden  path  of  em-.-^ration  that  conducted  him 
to  the  rich  valley  of  the  DuCi.  .iver,  one  of  the  principal 
tributaries  of  the  Teriiessee:     Here,  in  the  midst  of  the 
vy  wilderness,  in  "a  tract  of  country  erected  in  the  following 
year  into  the  County  of  Maury,  ho  established  his  new 
home.     His  example  was  itnitated  by  all  the  Polk  family 
in  North  Carolina,  who,  with  the  exception  of  one  branch, 
"  emigrated,  and  cast  their  lot  in  with  the  bold  spirits 
that  .-ought  a  home  in  the  great  valley  of  the  Missis- 

.<.il.pi."t 

■  Having  purchased  a  quantity  of  land,  Samuel  Polk 
employed  himself  in  its  cultivation ;  following,  at  inter- 
vals, the  occupation  of  a  surveyor.     By  dint  of  patient 

•  Democratic  Review,  May,  1838. 
t  Footo'i  idketohM,  p.  909. 


,1  iiiiMiwmrniiiiiiiiiiiniiii   mi,^. 


[180G. 

lose  of  the 
t  ill  from 
u(l  llowiii,;^ 
raii<;os  of 
ivc  reaclu's 
Tenncssco. 
y  the  first 
Thter  of  his 
titioii  to  ro- 
of purpose, 
ii<^  cml,  to 
(vho  looked 

f  his  design 

L806,  when, 

Dllowcd  tho 

ducted  him 

he  principal 

nidst  of  the 

le  following 

hed  his  new 

Polk  family 

one  branch, 

bold  spirits 

the  Missis- 

>amuel  Polk 
ng,  at  int'er- 
t  of  patient 


1806.1 


EARLY   UFT.   AND   CHARACTER. 


industry  and  economy,  and  by  his  untiring  and  energetic 
perseverance,  he  nc.,uirtd  a  fortune  c(,Hal  to  his  wishes 
and  his  wants.     Ho  lived  to  behold  tho  country  around 
lum  become  flourishing'  and  prosperous ;  to  see  its  dark 
forests  pass  away  like  son.o  vision  of  enchantment,  and 
Its  broad  plains  and  valleys  blooming  with  fruits  and 
flowers,  and  tecmin;.  with  tho  luxuriant  prmluco^f  a  fer- 
tile soil,     llo  lived  to  witness  the  brilliant  triumphs  of 
his  first-born  son  in  his  professional  career,  and  to  mark 
his  manly  bearing  as  he  advanced  with  rapid  strides  on 
the  pathway  to  greatness  and  fame.     Respected  as  one 
of  the  first  pioneers  of  Maury,  and  esteemed  as  a  useful 
citizen  and  an  estimable  man,  he  finally  closed  his  life  at 
Columbia  in  1H27.     His  wife,  a  most  excellent  and  pious 
woman,  afterwards  married  a.gentleman  by  tho  name  of 
Eden,  aJid  is  now  living  in  Columbia,  loved  and  revered 
by  all  who  know  her,  and  can  appreciate  her  many  vir- 
tues and  her  worth. 

Her  son  James,  the  subject  of  this  memoir,  passed  his 
boyhood  in  the  humble  position  in  life  which  his  parents 
occupied.     The  lessons  that  he  learned  in  this  school  were 
never  forgotten.     Here  was  formed  his  manly  and  self- 
reliant  disposition  :  here  were  imbibed  those  principles  of 
economy,  industry,  integrity  and  virtue,  which  adorned 
his  ripened  manhood.     Ho  was  by  no  means  a  stranger 
to  what,— unless,  as  in  his  case,  accompanied  by  a  happy 
and  contented  heart,— is  the  drudgery  of  daily  toil.     He 
assisted  his  father  in  the  management  of  his  farm,  antf 
was  his  almost  constant  companion  in  his  surveying  ex- 
cursions.     They  were  frequently  absent  for  weeks  to- 
gether, treading  the  dense  forests  and  traversing  the  rough 


88 


JAMES   KNOX    POI-K. 


fl80G. 


cano-brakcs  which  then  covered  the  fiico  of  the  coimtrv, 
and  exposed  to  all  the  changes  of  the  weather,  lui.l  tlio 
dangers  and  vicissitudes  of  a  life  in  the  woods.  On  tlieco 
occasions,  it  was  the  duty  of  James  to  take  caro  of  tho 
pack-horses  and  camp  equipage,  and  to  prepare  the  scanty 
.111(1  frugal  meals  of  the  surveying- parly. 

VVhen-a  lad,  ho  was  strongly  indiiwd  to  stii  ly,  and 
often  busied  himself  with  the  mathematical  caluiilntioiisof 
his  father.  Ho  was  very  fond  of  reading,  ami  was  of  ii 
reflective  turn  of  mind.  In  the  imperfect  and  ii.diMinct 
lines  of  early  youth  were  to  be  traced  the  tok.'ii.s  of  tho 
man,— the  certain  indices  of  the  future  li.xed  and  ptimii- 
nent  character.  Not  iiidifl"erent  to  the  sports  and  pas- 
tunes  of  boyhood,  ho  engaged  in  them,  not  for  amuseineut 
merely,  but  for  the  recreation  they  affordeil,  for  the  li;ilit 
and  joy  they  brought  to  his  heart.  To  ol.tain  a  liln  ral 
education  was  his  chief  desire,  and  a  prol\  s.xion  was  tho 
great  end  at  which  ho  aimed.  His  habits,  formed  by  tho 
moulding  hand  of  hia  exemplary  mother,  peculiarly  fitted 
him  for  success  in  the  sphere  toward  wlncli  his  thoughts 
were  directed,  and  on  which  his  hopes  wire fi.xed. 

Ho  was  correct  and  punctual.  He  had  industry  and 
application.  He  had  true  native  talent,— not  tlie  falxu 
pom  that  may  dazzlo  and  sparkle,  and  when  brought  to 
tl\e  test,  appears  mean  and  contemptible  ;  it  was  the  pure 
diamond,  borrowing  not  its  lustre,  but  containing  liglit 
within  itself.  He  had  earnestness  of  purpose,  subdu.d, 
perhaps,  in  expression,  but,  nevertheless,  "  the  strofig 
passion,  which,"  said  the  philosopher  of  Vorfe,*  "  roscu- 


•  HelTitiiu. 


bee 


fl80G. 

10  coiiiitrv, 
r,  111  111  tlio 

(.)m    tllOHO 

laro  of  tlm 
the  scanty 

stii  ly,  nii'l 
jiilntii>iis  (if 
1  wiis  (if  a 
1  iudi^tiiict 
kens  of  the 
iiid  |it'iinii- 
ts  tintl  pas- 
iiuinseinmt. 
iir  tlic  li;;lit 
ill  a  lilicnil 
ioa  WHS  tlm 
•nied  by  tlio 
liarly  fitti'i.1 
lis  tlioiiglits 
iced. 

(liistry  iiml 
ot  tlic  falHo 

brought  to 
fas  tlie  ptiro 
lining  light 
c,  subdui'il, 

the  stroiig 
!,*  "roscu- 


•vmmmmiimmtmm^ 


PEnsKVEHAvrr  and  ambition. 


80 


mg  us  from  .sloth,  can  alono  impart  to  us  that  continuous 
and  earnest  attention,  nocossary  to  great  intellectual  of- 
lurtM.''     II,.  possessed  genius,  also, — 

"  the  Vdii'o  within, 
That  •rer  whlfpers,  •  Work  uml  win  !' " 

/ 
Ho  had   persovcranco  and  amhition,— and  those  are 
traits  wiiich  .-ill  the  wealtii  (jf  the  UothscliildH  cannot  call 
into  existence,  where  nature  herself  has  not  planted  the 
seeds.     \Vhat  have  they  not  achieved  1     What  can  they 
not  accomplish  I     In  the  three  hundred  and  sixtieth  year 
before  the  Christian  era,  the  Athenian  people  for  the  first 
time  aekiKtwIcdged  the  great  mental  powers,  and  the  en- 
tliusii.stie   and  Houl-stirring  elo(,uence,  of  the  orator  of 
l'n^•ulia.     More  than  eight  years  had  elapsed  since  he 
Ii.id  made  his  debut  in  the  Assembly,  when  the  .weakness  . 
"f  his  voice,  his  harsh  and  careless  style,  and  his* ungrace- 
ful gesticulation,  had  brought  on  him  the  ridicule  of  his 
fellow-citizens.     History  informs  us,  that  one  kind  friend 
Ntood  by  him  in  this  crisis  of  his  fortunes,  and  inspired 
;ind  cheered  him  on  to  new  efforts  ;— might  she  not  have 
added,  that  a  voice  in  his  heart  continued  to  speak  words 
of  consolation  and  encouragement,  in  those  anxious  year? 
of  his  probation  ?— that  in  the  long,  wearisome  nights,  ho 
devoted  to  study  and  toil,  in  his  secret  retreat,  one  sweet, 
I'an.iliMr  spirit,  smiled  hopefully  on  Demosthenes,  ant! 
pointed  his  way,  clearly  and  distinctly  traced,  though 
'levious  and  difficult,  to  that  bright  hour  which  witnessed 
the  full  fruition  of  his  fame? 

'I'he  history  of  the  world-famed  *'  folly"  of  Fulton  has 
been  Lauded  down  to  us  as  containing  an  instructive  moral, 


40 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1806 


and  a  truthful  les'son,  .vWch  deserve  to  bo  remembered. 
We  can  smile  at  the  ineredulity  of  the  gapmg  and 
Ibt^g  crowd  that  assembled  to  behold  his  tr.umph  over 
Cft-tivo  power  which  he  had  -Vote.  ^  1. 
will  •  or  at  the  mirth-moving  astonishment  of  those  who 
i;:  the  banks  of  the  Hudson    and  trem  led  J^^^^^ 
fear  when  they  saw  the  flaming  vessel  plowing  the  waters 
M^ra  thing  of  life."     Bat  who  can  tell,  how  Herculean  . 
.    e  the  eifl  of  our  countryman's  genius  and  per^^^^^^^^ 
Ice  •  how  diligently  and  patiently  they  toiled  m  the  vas 
labor'ato  y  of  dleovery,  without  recompense  or  reward 
save teir  hopes  for  the  future,  to  forge  those  mighty 
inks  that  now  bind  nations  and  continents  together. 

Mos   appropriately  has  the  temple  of  Fame  been  rep- 

restted  afa'dorning  the  embattled  crest  of  some  lof  y 

and    u'ged  eminence,-clouds    and  darkness  hovermg 

li:i1^base,and''etermasun.,ii.''ves^-^- 

liness  and  beauty  on  its  ---f' .  U"f  pe  i  hlT  ^ere 
rps  the  ascent  is  tedious  and  difficult.     Uehla!  s  tuerc 
a  ;  who  beset  the  aspirantat  every  step  and  seek  towoo 
;;nlm  his  enterprise  by  their  .ft.bla^h«« 
sweet  Paphian  bowers  by  the  ^^y^'^ ;^'l^^^l'^^^ 
pose,  and  groves  of  perfumed  trees  send  "  th-  S^^^^^^^^ 
odors  to  intoxicate  the  mind  and  sou  .     Ml  thes^  n^^«u 
ences  must  be  disregarded  at  once  and  forever         ^.w  a  d 
and  upward"  must  be  the  mot^o  to  -«-^  *^;  ;;f;^^^^^^ 
.pirit,  to  restore  the  drooping  energies,  to  -sp^re^o  r 
nowed  exertion,  to  cheer  in  every  trial,  and  to  soften  the 
pang  of  every  disappointment.     The  struggle  may  bo 
a  duous  and  protracted;  but  the  recompense  is  sure  and 
rS    It  Ly  be  deferred  for  long,  but,  sooner  or  la- 


j"ti  wiiiwu.  mil  1 1  xi.iji;jii«i*|Hi 


[1806 

membcred. 
leaping  and 
riumpli  over 
ctcd  to  his 
f  those  -who 
jmbled  with 
IT  the  -waters 
w  Herculean 
nd  perscvcr- 
d  in  the  vast 
e  or  reward 
:hose  mighty 
jgether. 
tne  been  rep- 
f  some  lofty 
less  hovering 
sting  in  love- 
1  circumstan- 
)elilahs  there 
id  seek  to  woo 
andishments ; 
ite  him  to  ra- 
il their  Sabean 
.11  these  influ- 
r.     "  Onward 
le  the  flagging 
.  inspire  to  re- 
d  to  soften  the 
uggle  may  bo 
ise  is  sure  and 
it,  sooner  or  la- 


1813.J 


ii;iiL<  .iiiir)iHM'Ji>'iW>i 


HIS    EDUCATION. 


41 


tor,  tho  reward  will  come.  Youthful  Ambition,  rightly 
directed  and  encouraged,  never  lacks  the  will,  and  while 
life  is  spared,  it  knows  no  such  word  as  "  fail  !" 

In  the  infancy  of  the  State  of  Tennessee,  as  is  always  ^ 
the  case  in  new  settlements,  tho  opportunities  of  instruc- 
tion Avere  quite  limited.  The  father  of  young  Polk  was 
not  in  affluent  circumstances,  though  able  to  give  all  his 
children  a  good  education.  Ho  regarded  with  favor  the 
natural  bent  and  iilclination  of  his  son's  mind  toward 
study,  and  kept  him  pretty  constantly  at  school.  Though 
afllicted  for  many  years  by  a  ])ainful  affection,  from  wliich 
he  was  only  relieved  by  a  surirical  operation,  James  had 
been  completely  successful  in  mastering  the  Eiighsh  stud- 
ies usually  taught,  when  his  health  began  to  give  way. 
Fearing  that  his  constitution  had  become  so  much  weak- 
ened as  to  unfit  him  altogether  for  a  sc<lentary  life,  his 
father,  not  without  many  an  earnest  remonstrance  from 
his  son,  placed  him  with  a  merchant,  with  the  view  of 
fitting  him  for  commercial  pursuits. 

This  was  a  severe  blow  to  James.  All  his  dearest 
hopes  seemed  about  to  be  prostrated  forever.  He  had  no 
taste  for  the  new  duties  that  devolved  on  him,  ar'd  their 
performance  was  irksome  to  him  in  the  extreme.  He  had 
an  antipathy,  of  which  he  could  not  divest  himself,  to  tho 
mercantile  profession,  almost  as  great  as  that  of  John 
Randolph,  who  could  not  endure  "  a  man  with  a  quill 
behind  his  ear."  After  remaining  a  few  weeks  with  the 
merchant,  James  obtained  the  permission  of  his  father, 
by  much  entreaty  and  persuasion,  to  return  home ;  and 
in  the  month  of  July,  1813,  he  was  placed  under  the  tui- 
tion of  the  Rev.  Dr.  Henderson.     Subsequently  he  was 


iP: 


^ 


42 


JAMES    KNOX   FOLK. 


[1815 


sent  to  the  Murfreesborough  Academy,  then  under  the 
superintendence  of  Mr.  Samuel  P.  Black,  one  of  the  most 
celebrated  classical  teachers  in  Middle  Tennessee. 

Henceforward  there  were  no  obstacles  in  the  way  of  his 
obtaining  the  education  he  so  ardently  desired.  In  less 
than  two  years  and  a  half  he  prepared  himself  thoroughly 
for  an  advanced  class  in  college ;  and  in  the  autumn  of 
1815,  being  then  in  his  twentieth  year,  he  entered  the 
University  of  North  Carolina,  at  Chapel  Hill,  at  the 
beginning  of  the  sophomore  year.  This  venerable  insti- 
tution, at  which  so  many  of  the  most  distinguished  states- 
men, and  the  most  eminent  divines,  in  the  Southern  part 
of  the  Union,  have  been  ^educated,  was  then  under  the 
charge  of  the  Rev.  Dr.  Joseph  Caldwell,  "justly  styled 
the  father  of  the  University."*  Colonel  William  Polk, 
late  of  Raleigh,  and  the  first  cousin  of  the  father  of  Pres- 
ident Polk,  was  also  one  of  the  most  influential  and  ac- 
tive of  the  trustees,  and  had  been  such  from  about  the 
time  of  the  first  establishment  of  the  institution. 

At  the  University,  Mr.  Polk  was  most  exemplary  in 
the  performance.of  all  his  duties,  not  only  as  a  member 
of  college,  but  also  of  the  literary  society  to  which  he 
belonged.  He  was  punctual  and  prompt  in  every  exer- 
cise, and  never  absent  fromr  ecitation  or  any  of  the  relig- 
ious services  of  the  institution.  So  high  was  his  stand- 
ing, so  remarkable  his  character,  in  this  respect,  that  one 
of  his  classmates,  who  was  something  of  a  wag,  was  in 
the  habit  of  averring,  when  he  desired  his  hearers  to 
place  confidence  in  his  assertions,  that  the  fact  he  stated, 

•  Foote'i  Skttohet,  p.  NO. 


fi 

tl 

St 

U 

hi 

sc 

be 
ni' 
E: 
ua 

■Hi; 
111.' 
tlli 

mc 

liv 

Rli 

res 

Ep 

J 

see 

(lid 

upo 

visi 

the 

mo 

ha,\ 

Ma! 

and 


[1815 

I  under  the 
of  the  most 
iSBee. 

,e  way  of  his 
d.  In  less 
'  thoroughly 
I  autumn  of 
entered  the 
Hill,  at  the 
erable  insti- 
ished  states- 
>uthern  part 
n  under  the 
justly  styled 
'illiam  Polk, 
ther  of  Pres- 
itial  and  ac- 
n  about  the 
ion. 

xemplary  in 
,8  a  member 
to  which  he 
I  every  exer- 
of  the  relig- 
fts  his  stand- 
)ect,  that  one 
wag,  was  in 
8  hearers  to 
ct  he  stated, 


1818.J  Ho;joRs  OF  HIS  alma  mater. 

was  "just  as  certain,  as  that  Polk  would  get  up  at  the 
first  call." 

He  was  no  superficial  student;  he  was  perfect  and 
thorough  m  evcrytliing  ho  undertook.     Ho  well  under- 
stood the  difference  between  true  merit   and  pretence. 
Untn-ing  assiduity  and  close  application   cliaracterized 
hiin  throughout  his  wliole  coHogiatc  course.    Of  the  exact 
.sciences  he  waspas..ionate]y  fo..,l,  tliond.  ho  was  also  au 
excellent  linguist.     At  eacli  so.ni-anaual  exaniinntion  he 
bore  away  the  highest  honors,  and  at  the  close  of  the  ju- 
nior year  the  first  distinction  was  awanled  to  him  and 
Ex-Governor  William  D.  Moseley,  „t  Florida.   He  grad- 
uated m  June,  1818,  with  the],;ol,,,t  distinction,  which 
was  assigned  to  him  alone,  as  the  best  scholar  in  both  the 
mathematics  and  classics,  and  delivered  the  Latin  Salu 
tatory  Oration.     The  second  distinction,  at   this  com- 
mencement, was  awarded  to  William  M.  Green,  who  ?le 
livercd  the  valedictory,  and  was  afterwards  Professor  of 
Rhetoric  and  Logic  in  the  University,  which  station  ho 
resigned  m  1849  to  enter    pon  his  duties  as  Bishop  of  the 
Episcopal  Church  in  the  Diocese  of  Mississippi 

Mr.  Polk  did  not  forget  his  Ahna  Mater  amid  the  busy 
scenes,  the  turmoil  and  confusion,  of  bis  active  life  ;  nor 
did  she  lose  sight  of  one  who  reflected  so  much  credit 
upon  her,  in  every  station  that  he  filled.     He  often  re 
nsited  her  shrine,  and  attended  the  pleasant  reunions  of 
the  Mother  and  her  sons ;  and  at  the  annual  commence- 
ment, in  June,  1847,  the  honorary  .legree  of  Doctor  of 
Laws  was  conferred  upon  him,  together  with  John  Y 
Mason  late  Secretary  of  the  Navy,  of  the  class  of  1816. 
and  ^\,lhe  P.  Mangum,  of  the  Senate  of  the  United 


JAMES  KNOX  POLK. 


[1818. 


States  and  a  member  of  the  class  of  1815,-a  compU- 
^cT  in  each  instance,  most  richly  deserved    by  gooa 
m  ship  and  correct  deportment  .hile  in  college    and 
by  ability  and  fidelity  displayed  inthepubhc  servxce. 


■«»w^.iMaiijj»>'iiJ>''fc'-'""'^*"' 


[1818. 

— a  compli- 
3d,  by  good 
college,  and 
5  service. 


■')■  ',• 


CHAPTER  III. 


Commenceg  the  StuJy  of  tho  Law  in  the  Offioo  of  Folix  Grundy— Se- 
cures the  Friendship  of  Andrew  Jaclison— Admitted  to  tho  Ijar— Suoceaa 
in  the  Practice  of  his  I'rofesaion — Ili.'i  Political  Associatioiis — Stylo  and 
Manner  as  a  Public  S|ieakor— CJhicf  Clerk  and  Member  of  tho  Ton- 
nossoo  Legislature— Duelling  Livw- Intermil  Improvements- Ilia  Mar- 
riage—Mrs. Polk. 


When  Mr.  Polk  left  the  University,  his  health  was 
considerably  impai;-t'd  by  his  constant  and  unremitting 
application  to  his  studies.  But  the  hopes  tdid  aspirations 
of  youth,  like  the  Avaters  of  the  magical  fountain  which 
Ponce  de  Leon  so  longed  to  discover,  are  famed  for  their 
restorative  powers ;  and  tho  mind,  as  the  body,  in  tho 
spring-time  of  life,  contains  within  itself  a  host  of  recu- 
perative energies.  A  fcAv  months  of  relaxation  and  res- 
pite from  study,  were  sufficient  fully  to  restore  him  ;•  and 
tiie  choice  of  a  profession  was  then  to  be  considered  and 
decided.  This  was  not  at  all  difficult.  His  thoughts 
had  long  been  directed  toward  the  law,  and  each  suc- 
ceeding year  had  served  to  confirm  and  strengthen  the 
desire  which  he  had  half  formed  ere  the  time  came  for 
sober  and  serious  reflection. 

His  final  determination  was  made  in  jiccordancc  with 
his  previous'  inclinations ;  ami  at  the  beginning  of  the 
year  1819,  he  entered  the  office  of  Felix  Grundy,  at 
Nashville.  Mr.  Grundy  was  then  in  the  zenith  of  his 
fame — at  the  head  of  the  Tennessee  bar — enjoying  tho 


46 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1819. 


181 


professional  honors  and  rewards  which  continued  to  flow 
liberally  upon  him — and  with  the  laurels  he  had  won  on 
the  floor  of  the  House  of  Representatives  of  tlie  United 
States  in  defence  of  the  war  measures  of  President  Mad- 
isouj  blooming  freshly  on  his  brow.  In  him  Mr.  Polk 
found  not  only  a  legal  preceptor  whoso  rich  storea  of 
learning -were  freely  opened  for  his  profit  and  instruction, 
but  "  an  experienced  Nestor,"  whose  counsel  and  advice 
guided  and  directed  his  footsteps  aright,  upon  the  samo 
road  once  travelled  by  himself,  to  the  distinction  aild 
eminence  which  he  had  attained.  He  found  him,  lUso, 
a  warm  and  sincere  friend,  who  admitted  him  to  his  con- 
fidence i^rd  his  heart,  who  sympathijftd  with  him  over  the 
difiiculties  that  attended  his  first  efforts  to  master  the 
black-letter  of  his  profession,  who  watched  his  progress 
with  paternal  solicitude  and  care,  and  who  rejoiced  most 
heartily  at  the  success  that  rewarded  his  exertions.  A 
friendship  sprung  up  between  them,  cherished  on  the  ono 
side  with  all  the  ardor  and  disinterestedness  of  youth, 
and  on  the  other,  though  less  lavish,  perhaps,  in  profes- 
sions, marked  by  the  calm  and  deep  earnestness  of  age : 
it  stood  the  test  of  years,  and  the  changes  of  time  and  cir- 
cumstance, and  it  was  severed  only  by  death,  the  great 
destroyer  of  human  hopes  and  human  ties. 

Beside  being  the  favorite  student  of  Mr.  Grundy,  it 
was  the  good  fortune  of  Mr.  Polk,  during  his  residence 
ill  Nashville,  to  attract  the  attention  and  to  win  the  es- 
i.'cni  of  one  who  bound  his  friends  to  him  with  hooks  of 
adamant,  and  whose  favor  could  not  be  too  highly  prized  ; 
of  ono  whose  influence  over  him,  powerful  though  it 
was,  was  at  all  times  voluntarily  and  cheerfully  acknowl- 


edg 

Ne\ 

the 

AVer 

trib 

to  tl 

Son: 

fond 

in  81 

cli).s< 

Mr. 

a  p> 

vunc 

niani 

the  f 

on  tl 

(lopo 

Jam( 

W 

of  M 

Ills  I 

near 

bar. 

liiinsc 

of  hi,' 

tato,- 

*  He 
sliip  of 
fly  wifl 
nftlio  I 
for  soni 
grandfi 


■!-*» 


[1819. 

icd  to  flow 
had  won  on 

the  United 
lidont  Miul- 
n  Mr.  Polk 
[\  storeaof 
instruction, 

and  advice 
n  the  same 
notion  artd 
1  him,  dso, 

to  his  con- 
iin  over  the 

master  the 
lis  progress 
joiced  most 
ertions.  A 
1  on  the  one 
1  of  youth, 
,  in  profes- 
[less  of  age : 
ime  and  cir- 
h,  the  great 

Grundy,  it 
is  residence 
win  the  es- 

• 

th  hooks  of 
;hly  prized ; 
[  though  it 
ily  acknowl- 


1819.]         FRIKNDSHIP   OF   ANDREW    JACKSON.  47 

f^lged ;  of  ANnREvv  Jackson,  the  gallant  defender  of 
JNew  Orleans,  already  occupying  a  proud  position  amon.- 
the  great  men  of  the  nation.*     JBoth  preceptor  and  pupil 
wore  ever  welcome  guests  at  the  Hermitage  ;  both  con- 
tributed, in  after  years,  to  the  elevation  of  its  occupant 
to  the  highest  station  in  the  land,  and,  the  one  in  the 
Senate,  and  the  other  in  the  House,  sustained  and  de- 
fended his  administration  against  whomsoever  assailed  it, 
m  storm  and  in  sunshine,  fiv  -n  its  commencement  to  its 
close      General  Jackson  was  always  warmly  attached  to 
Mr.  lolk  :  he  looked  upon  him  something  in  theli-htof 
ii  P'otf'gi,  and  took  a  deep  interest  in  his  political  ad- 
vancement.    His  feelings  were  often  manifested  in  a 
manner  that  could  not  be  mistaken,  and  particularly  so  at 
the  presidential  election  in  iSU,  when,  though  trembling 
on  the  verge  of  the  grave,  he  appeared  at  the  polls,  and 
deposited  hit  ballot  hi  favor  of  the  republican  candidates, 
James  K.  Polk  and  George  M.  Dallas. 

Within  two  .years  from  the  time  ho  entered  the  office 
of  Mr.  Grundy,  Mr.  Polk  had  made  sufficient  pro-^ress  in 
Ins  legal  studies  to  entitle  him  to  an  examination,  and 
near  the  close  of  1820  he  was  regularly  admitted  to  the 
bar.  He  now  returned  to  Maury  County,  and  established 
luinself  m  practice  at  Columbia,  among  the  companions 
ot  his  boyhood,  who  had  grown  up  with  him  to  man's  es- 
tate,—among  these  who  had  known  and  esteemed  him 

*■  iteeoll^ction.  of  tl.o  past  un.loubtedly  aided  to  strengthen  the  f.iond- 
K.np  o  (,ene.a  .T,u,.k*.n  f,..-  Mr.  P.,lk.  Who„  the  former  wa.  obliged  to 
%  w.th  h.  ,„oU,er  and  broth.,-  before  the  army  of  Corn-,ralIis,  in  tho  war 
nf  tl  0  Kevobifon   they  took   rof,.,.,  i„  Mecklenburg  County,  and  resided 

^InH     J""/"''.""  ""«''""  ""*'  ^"^"-^  °'  Mr.  Polk's  father  and 
grandfftther.-Foote'i  Skotcbes,  pp.  |99,  476. 


48 


JAMES  KNOX   FOLK. 


[1820. 


from  his  earliest  years.     His  advantages  were  great,  in 
consequence  of  the  connection  of  his  family,  by  the  ties 
of  blood  or  of  friendship,  with  most  of  the  old  inhabitants 
and  their  descendants.     His  success,  therefore,  was  equal 
to  his  fondest  hopes  ;  yet  this  may  be  attributed  far  more 
to  his  personal  qualities  and  conduct,  than  to  any  adven- 
titious circumstances.     "  A  republican  in  habits  as  well 
as  principles,  depending  for  the  maintenance  of  his  dig- 
nity upon  the  esteem  of  .others,  and  not  upon  his  owji 
assumption,  his  manners  conciliated  the  general  good  will. 
The  confidence  of  his  friends  was  justified  by  the  result. 
His  thorough  academical  preparation,  his  abcurate  knowl- 
edge of  the  I.tw,  his»  readiness  and  resources  in  debate, 
his  unwearied  application  to  business,  secured  him,  at 
once,  full  employment,  and  in  less  than  a  year  he  was 
already  a  leading  practitioner.     Such  prompt  success  in 
tt  profession  where  the  early  stages  are  proverbially  slow 
and  discouraging,  falls  to  the  lot  of  few."* 

As  a  lawyer  he  was  no  more  a  sciolist,  than  he  had 
been  as  a  student  in  college.  His  learning  was  thorough 
and  profound.  Perfectly  familiar  witli  the  lore  of  his 
profession,  and  prompt.and  accurate  in  judgment,  his  cli- 
ents were  accustomed  to  place  the  utmost  reliance  on  his 
opinions.  In  the  trial  of  causes  he  was  wary  and  skil- 
ful, but  frank  and  honorable  5  he  disilaiucd  to  avail  him- 
self of  tricks  or  technicalities,  but  he  never  suffered  his 
opponent  to  obtain  any  advantage  through  his  own  care- 
lessness or  neglect.  '  In  addressing  a  jury  he  was  always 
animated  and  impressive  in  manner,  though  his  language 

*  Democratic  ReTietr,  May,  1888. 


■  jjWHH^ 


^i,^yJ.  u,iLUii ».  j.^'jiHJ'Jii-J.itiili^  jaiiaJ  J.'^i'" ! " ' 


[1820. 

1  wero  great,  in 
lily,  by  tlie  ties 

old  inhabitants 
efore,  was  equal 
:ibuted  far  more 
n  to  any  adven- 
1  habits  as  well 
ance  of  his  dig- 
t  upon  his  owji 
;eneral  good  will. 
;d  by  the  result, 
abcurate  knowl- 
iirces  in  debate, 
secured  him,  at 

a  year  he  was 
•onipt  success  in 
iroverbially  slow 

list,  than  he  had 
iiig  was  thorough 
the  lore  of  his 
udgment,  his  cli- 
st  reliance  on  his 
s  wary  and  skil- 
licd  to  avail  hira- 
over  suffered  his 
jlh  his  own  care- 
ry  he  was  always 
ugh  his  language 


1820.] 


PROFESSIONAL   SUCCESS. 


49 


was  impassioned  or  argumentative,  as  the  occasion  re- 
quired. He  was  a  close  logician,  an  able  reasoner;  and' 
in  the  argument  of  legal  questions,  ho  wielded  the  club 
of  Hercules.  His  reputation  was  not  confined  to  Maury 
alone ;  it  extended  to  the  adjobing  counties,  and  through- 
out the  state.  Wherever  he  was  known  he  was  respected 
and  esteemed  for  his  talents,  his  courtesy,  his  kindness 
and  generosity  of  heart,  his  uprightness  and  integrity ; 
and  this  favorable  estimation  in  which  he  was  held,  was 
no  reluctant  acknowledgment,  yielded,  like  the  bounty  of 
the  miser,  sparingly  and  with  regret,  but  a  voluntary 
tribute  to  his  worth. 

Mr.  Polk  remained  at  the  bar,  it  may  be  said,  up  to 
the  time  of  his  election  as  governor  of  Tennessee,  but  for 
several  years  he  devoted  himself  exclusively  to  the  labo- 
rious duties  of  his  calliug,  constantly  adding  to  his  prac- 
tice and  his  reputation,  and  annually  reaping  a  rich 
harvest  of  professional  emoluments.  Though  "  there 
were  giants  in  the  land,"  he  stood  in  the  front  rank 
among  his  cotemporari.  s.  During  some  portion  of  this 
period  he  was  associated  with  other  practitioners  in  busi- 
ness, and  at  other  times  he  Avas  alone.  Among  his  law 
partners  were  Aaron  V.  Brown,  of  Pulaski,  for  some  years 
a  representative  in  Congress  from  the  sixth  district  (Ten- 
nessee) and  governor  of  the  state  from  1845  to  1847,  and 
Gideon  J.  Pillow,  a  major-general  in  the  army  during  the 
Avar  with  Mexico. 

Allusion  has  been  already  made  to  the  politics  of  that 
branch  of  the  Polk  family  who  remained  in  Maryland. 
Those  who  migrated  to  North  Carolina  entertained  simi- 
lar sentiments.    The  father  of  the  late  President  also 


•fHajf^jLifi  .tV.'g^tt^" 


60 


JAMGR   KNOX   POT.K. 


[1828. 


belonged  to  the  JofTorsonian  scliool ;  he  supported  it3 
founder  in  the  great  contest  of  1800,  and  up  to  the  close 
of  his  life  was  the  firm  and  consistent  advocate  of  repub- 
lican principles.  The  associations  of  Mr.  Polk  himself, 
in  early  life,  and  •while  ho  was  reading  law,  naturally 
inclined  him  to  adopt  the  same  opinions  ;  but  the  convic- 
tions of  his  matured  judgment  accorded  with  and  ap- 
proved them. 

It  is  rarely  the  case,  in  this  country,  that  the  politician 
and  the  lawyer  are  not  united  in  one  and  the  same  person; 
ajid  Mr.  Polk  was  not  an  exception  to  this  general  rule. 
As  soon  as  he  became  a  voter  he  attached  himself  to  tho 
republican  party,  and  after  his  admission  to  the  bar,  was 
an  active  participant  in  the  political  contests  of  that  day. 
His  style  and  manner  as  a  public  speaker  were  eminently 
calculated  to  win  the  favor  of  a  popular  assembly,  and  ho 
was  often  sent  for  many  miles  from  his  home  to  address 
tho  meetings  of  hi«  party  friends.    His  reputation  in  this 
respect  was  unrivalled,  and  it  was  ultimately  conceded  by 
men  of  all  parties,  that  he  richly  merited  the  distinction 
generally  awarded  to  him,  of  being  the  "  Napoleon  of  tho 
Stump"  in  Tennessee. 

In  his  political  harangues,  however,  he  did  not  deviate 
from  the  ruling  priuoiplo  of  his  life, — to  seek  for  the  use- 
ful rather  than  tho  ornamental.  He  charmed  his  hear- 
ers, not  by  frothy  declamation ,  but  by  his  plain  and  prac- 
tical common  sense.  He  captivated  and  interested  them 
by  his  sincerity,  and  led  them  imperceptibly  to  adopt  his 
conclusions,  by  the  simple  beauty  and  cogency  of  his  ar- 
guments, and  his  pertinent  and  forcible  illustrations.  He 
aimed  to  convince,  not  merely  to  produce  an  impression 


an 

loi 

po 

cxl 

the 

era 

au( 

his 

inti 

cer 

Fri 

the 

wit 

I 


.uij<i-i  ,.mii*nv' 


■P"W«!" 


W'ii    imiiiiiiniii 


mpportcd  its 
p  to  the  closo 
;ato  of  rcpub- 
Polk  himself, 
iw,  naturally 
nt  the  convic- 
with  and  ap- 

;  the  politician 
same  person ; 
general  rule. 
Iiiniself  to  the 
I  the  bar,  was 
;8  of  that  day. 
ircro  eminently 
embly,  and  ho 
me  to  address 
utation  in  this 
ly  conceded  by 
the  distinction 
fapoleon  of  tho 

lid  not  deviate 
ek  for  the  use- 
med  his  hear- 
jlain  and  prac- 
nterested  them 
>ly  to  adopt  his 
ency  of  his  ar- 
istrations.  He 
an  impression 


1823.]  STYLE   AS  A   PUBLIC   SPEAKER.  ^ 

favorable  to  the  speaker.    His  elocution  ,.as  rapid,  but 
fluent,  his  address  easy,  yet  dignified;  his  manner  ear- 
nest, often  enthusiastic.     Tiiough  naturally  reserved  in 
Ins  disposition,  ho  occasionally  indulged  himself  in  a 
playful  sally  of  wit.     But  his  language  was  always  sin- 
gularly correct  and  chaste ;  he  sought  for  none  of  tho 
flowers  of  rhetoric,  no  brilliant  figures  or  high-wrought 
metaphors,  but  regarded  them  as  equally  deceptive  and 
unsubstantial  with  the  dew-drops  that  sparkled  at  his 
•t'et,  anr'   ,hich  disappeared  in  the  first  hour  of  sunshine. 
He  expressed  himself  in  tho  good  old  idioms  of  his  mother 
tongue,  which  he  found  to  harmonize  so  well  with  his  own 
sentiments,   and    with    the   honest    independence    and 
straightforward  character  of  the  freemen  whom  he  ad- 
dressed. 

In  private  life,  too,  in  his  social  habits,  he  was  fitted 
by  nature  to  win  "  troops  of  friends."     His  daily  walk 
and  conversation  were  blameless.     Ho  had  none  of  the 
low  arts  or  tricks  of  the  demagogue.    He  was  affable  and 
polite ;  maintaining  the  dignity  of  his  position,  without 
cvchibitrng  the  arrogancy  that  wounds.     He  was  not,  like 
the  Parisian,  «  a  democrat  when  on  foot,  and  an  aristo- 
crat when  m  his  carriage."     The  welfare  of  his  friends 
and  neighbors  was  at  all  times  a  matter  of  importance  in 
his  estimation ;  and  whenever  it  was  jjroper  for  him  to 
mterfei^e,  he  interested  himself  in  their  commonest  con- 
cerns   in  the  kindest  and  most  sympathizing  manner. 
1  nendly  words  and  smiles  seemed  to  cost  him  nothing: 
they  came  to  his  lips  unbidden,  and  lighted  up  his  cheek 
without  an  effort.  °  r 

Possessing  all  these  advantages  of  mind  and  disposi- 


"S^rsji-^sf? 


52 


JAMES    KNOX    POtK. 


fl82S 


18 


tlon  so  necosMiiry  to  HiicresH  in  lui  ivspiraiit  for  {Hilitical 
lioiiors  ;  .K'l'p-rootod  in  tlio  iiaVctioiis  (.f  a  Iiirgo  ciicli'  of 
iidmlrinj,'  frieii-ls  ;  tlio  pride  mid  tlio  liopo  of  tla-  y.nity  to 
which  he  hi-loiij,'cd,  lie  I'l.ton d  public  lifo  nt  an  cnily  ii,i;.'. 
His  first  cniployinont  in  tliis  chimictir  was  that  of  cliicf 
cJ.  ik  lo  tlio  hoiH.'  of  iTprcsc'iitiiMvcs  of  tlic  Tfnneswe 
l(.;ji^ituro ;  and  in  tljo  sunnncr  of  1s2:5,  in  accordanci' 
urn  iicr,'  with  his  o>vn  dcsiri'  than  with  the  wishes  of  his 
ffiiMids.  he  to..k  the  -lump  aj,'aiiist  the  fofimr  nieiiiher  of 
that  body  f I' an  Maury.  A  most  furinidi^lile  oppo>itioi. 
w,i<  eticnmitetvd,  Imt  after  an  animated  canvass  ho  se- 
oiiivd  his  election  by  a  lieavy  I'najority. 

He  remained    in    tlie    legislature  for  two   sncccssiv< 
years,  heint?  justlv  regardeil  as  one  of  the  most  talente.i 
and  pruniisnig  niemh.rs.     His  ability  a^id  shrewdness  in 
d.  hate,  his  business  tact,  his  firmness  and  industry,  se- 
cured him  a  high  reputation.     Most  of  the  measures  of 
the  then  l»resident,  iMr.  Monroe,  received  his  uiKiualified 
support  and  ajiprobation,  and  he  was  ardently  desirous 
that  the  successor  of  the  former  should  be  one  who  had 
no  sympathy  for  the  latitudinarian  doctrines  with  refer- 
ence to  the  constitution  which  appeared  to  be  saining 
ground.     Animated  by  this  motive,  he  approved  of  the 
nomination  of  Andfcw  Jackson  for  the  Presidency,  made 
by  the  Tennessee  legislature  in  August,  1822 ;  and  in 
the  autumn  of  the  following  year,  ho  contributed  by  his 
influence  and  vote  to  the   election  of  his    .  i.^tinguished 
friend  to  the  Senate  of  the  United  States- 

While  a  member  of  the  General  Assembly,  Mr.  Polk 
succeeded  in  procuring  the  passage  of  :i  law  designed  U, 
prevent  duelling.     Though  residing  iu  a  section  of  tlio 


mad 


pram 
Ml 

govet 
doubt 
He  e( 
that  f. 
ha  pn 
power 
they  1 
in  whi 


.  [1823 

)r  political 
;o  circle  nf 
If  party  to 
curly  n;j;c. 
at  of  chief 

TcllllCHSCH 

iicconliiiice 
slics  of  l;is 

llll'llllx'l'  of 

iij)j)i)>ition 
vasM  ho  RC- 


sncccssivr 
)st  tiilciitnl 
•I'wdiicss  in 
(lustry,  sc- 
noasurcH  of 
uiiciiialificd 
;ly  desirous 
ne  who  had 
with  refer- 

he  Ruining 
■oved  of  tlio 
Icncy,  made 
22 ;  and  in 
mtcd  by  his 
i.^tingujslicd 

y,  Mr.  Polk 

designed  to 

ction  of  tlio 


1824. 


UUELMNO    LAW. 


ra 


Hn.on  where  this  .node  of  vindicating  one's  honor  when 
nxsaded  has  ever  heen  sustained  hy  the  general  Hcmc  of 

"'' "•"•""'>''  "ft^'"ti"'^'«  i..  opposition  to  positive  enact- 

"H'MM    ho  was  never  concerne.l  in   a   duel,  durin-   his 
whol.   hf..,  either  as  principal  or  second.      This  wa"  tho 
nu.re  n  ...arkable,  because  of  the  n.any  st.>rn.y  epochs  in 
1..M  pohncal  carer,     ills  aversion  to   duelling  did    not 
procml  Iron,  constitutional  timidity;  he  was  utterly  op- 
.  posed  to  the  practice,  fron,  principle;  and  though  ho 
n.ade  no  unbe^onung  parade  of  his  sentin.ents,  he  dhl  not 
cure  to  conceal  then..     No  one  ever  invaded  his  personal 
>^;,'I.t.s    without    finding  hin.  prej-ared  to  defend  them, 
i^ever  givn.g  an  insult  himself,  ho  was  nof  called  upon 
0  rendc.r  satisfaetion  ;  and  if  indignity  were  offered  to 
Imn,  .t  was  resented  by  tlie   silence  that   indicated  his 
contempt,  or   the  pron.pt  rebuke  that   carried    with  it 
pun.shn.ent  <.nough.     He  could  not  imb,-ue  his  hands  un-     ' 
necessanly  .n  the  blood  of  his  fellow-man;  butl.opos- 
Bcssed  t.-ue  n.o.-al  co,„,,gc-that  bravery  of  soul  which 
prompted  l.nn  to  do  right. 

Mr.  Polk  always  doubted  the  power  of  the  general 
gover..me..t  to  .nake  i...p.-oven.e..ts  in  the  States ;  and  his 
doubts  ult.n,ately  beca,„e  absolute  denials  of  the  right. 
Ho  concurred,  however,  with  Mr.  Monroe,  in  the  belief 
that  such  .mp,-oveme..ts  were  desirable,  and  that  it  would    • 
b.  proper  to  amend  the  Constitution  so  as  to  confer  the 
power,  a  though,  in  the  absc.ceof  such  an  amendment, 
they  m.ght  bo  carried  on  with  the  cc.sent  of  the  States 
la  which  they  were  located.*    When,  therefore,  the  Pres- 

•  Special  Me«age  of  Mr.  Monroe,  May  4th.  1822. 


'.fl>'tH!^.Sg,,,!SHi.imii,j>.,iitJ 


64 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1824. 


m 


ident  so  far  yielded  to  those  of  his  friends  Avho  had  long 
vainly  attempted  to  persuade  him  to  lend  his  counteiuinct) 
to  an  extensive  system  of  improvements,  as  to  give  \m 
consent  to  the  act  of  1824,  authorizing  surveys  to  ho 
made  of  the  routes  of  such  roads  and  canals  as  ho  might 
deem  of  national  importance,  Mr.  Polk  looked  upon  the 
measure  with  favor;  and  in  a  speech  delivered  in  tlio 
legislature  on  the  29th  of  September,  1824,  on  the  bill  to 
incorporate  the  Murfreesborough  Turnpike  Company,  ho 
expressed  the  opinion  that  such  works  ought  properly  to 
be  constructed  by  the  State  or  the  general  government, 
and  added  that,  inasmuch  as  "  the  question  with  regard 
to  the  powers  of  the  government  to  make  internal  im- 
provements" had  been  settled  at  the  previous  session  of 
Congress,  "  he  thought  it  likely  that  the  attention  of  tho 
government  might  be  directed  to  the  object  of  extending 
the  military  road  from  New  Orleans." 

The  views  of  Mr.  Polk  on  this  question  of  internal  im- 
provements subsequfciitly  underwent  a  change ;  and  when 
«he  saw  what  great  latitude  had  been  taken  under  the  con- 
stitution as  it  was,  and  how  much  danger  there  was  to 
be  apprehended  from  the  undue  enlargement  of  the  power 
of  the  general  government  by  the  adoption  of  the  proposed 
amendment,  he  took  decided  ground  against  any  change, 
and  exerted  all  his  influence  and  authority  to  bring  back 
the  ship  of  state  to  her  ancient  moorings. 

On  the  Ist  day  of  January,  1824,  Mr.  Polk  was  mar- 
ried to  Sarah  Childress,  the  daughter  of  Joel  Childress,  a 
wealthy  and  enterprising  merchant  of  Rutherford  county, 
Tennessee.  Mr.  Childress  was  a  native  of  Campbell 
county,  Virginia,  and  married  Elizabeth  Whitsitt. 


fcawi|ii  iii.^tii;iii<Piij>iiwiiif*ijiii'y*i'!.'e>  I 


:.A-r,!a^'y^'8i!;i^:^^'Jlil''g 


Tiftm' 


[1824. 

who  had  long 
i  countoimncu 
IS  to  give  his 
surveys  to  ho 
1  as  ho  miglit 
)kod  upon  tlio 
ivcrcd  in   tlio 

on  the  hill  to 
Company,  ho 
it  properly  to 

government, 
n  with  rcgiu-d 
!  internal  im- 
Dus  session  of 
tention  of  the 
,  of  extending 

)f  internal  im- 
ge ;  and  when 
mdcr  the  con- 
there  was  to 
it  of  the  power 
if  the  proposed 
3t  any  change, 
to  bring  back 

Polk  was  mar- 
el  Childress,  a 
lerford  county, 
I  of  Campbell 
Vhitsitt. 


1824.J 


.  Mi.:; ,  POLK. 


55 


•  Mrs.  Polk  was  well  fitted  to  adorn  any  station.     To 

th'^  charms  of  a  fine  person  she  united  intellectual  accom- 
phshments  of  a  high  order.     Sweetness  of  disposition, 
gracefulness  and  ease  of  manner,  and  beauty  of  mind 
.vere  happily  blended  in  her  character.     A  kind  mistress,' 
a  faithful  friend,  and  a  devoted  wife,-these  are  her  titles 
to  esteem  ;  and  they  are  gems  brighter  and  more  resplen- 
'  I'Mt  than  ever  decorated  a  queenly  brow.     AiTable,  but 
•hgn.fied;  intelligent,  but  unaffected  ;  frank  and  sincere 
yet  never  losing  sight  of  the  respect  due  to  her  position, 
she  won  the  regard  of  all  who  approached  her.     Her  un 
in.hng  courtesy,  an.l  her  winning  deportment,  were  re- 
nmrked  by  every  one  who  saw  her  presi.ling  at  the  White 
ilouse;*  each  one  of  her  husband's  guests  was  for  the 

*  ^'«  oxouso  neod  bo  offerc.l  for  tl.c  in-ortion  in  fhi,,  plncc  of  the  follow 

-K  a  , ,.  t  of  the  cl„,„o„t  or..or  an,l  o.,i„o„t  st,.,es,„„n,  Henry -Clav    at 
A\n.h,ngton   ,„  the  wintor  „f  !S,8,  «hV,,  ,of,Hn,Uly  n^reHred  in  a  IbH 

e     edad,„no,.p„r,,,  with  n,.„yo,he,.  .listinp.i.hed   gentlcnen  o    L"  . 
H,„eal  pa,„e.,  „,  the  rre,id,..,fs  house.     The  paH.y  i.s',,ld  to  hav     b    ' 

l.n.-KoodfeeI,„g  abounded,  and  wit  and  livly  repartee  pave  .e.t  to  tbo 
...■eas,„n   whde  Mrs  Poll,  the    winnin,  and  neeo.n  li^hed'hostor,  idd  J 

hn,.h,n,.  graee  of  her  exeellent  hon,ewiiery  in  the  .uperior  .nanagem  nt 
o<    he  feast.   Mr.  C  lay  wa.s  ofconr.se  honored  with  a  ..eat  near  the  President" 
|-l.v.  .vhere  .t  beean.o  hin,  to  put  in  re,,„isi,i,.n  tho-e  in»i„untin,  talent 
Unoh  he  possesses  m  so  eminent  a  decree,  and  ,vhieh  areVeslstible  even 
o  nsenenncs.    Mrs.  Polk,  ,vi,h  her  nsnal  frank  an,l  „m.ble  nn.nn.;  w 
.    .u.  nely  courteous  to  her  distin.ushed  ,„os.,  „n  ,vhose  good  opinio;    a, 
..1  all  who  .share  the  ho.spi,„li,les  of  the  A^'hite  liou.se.  she  did  l,„t  fail  To 

"'  Madam,'  said  Mr.  Clay,  in  that  bland  manner  peculiar  to  himself   '  I 
must  .say  that  in  my  travels,  wherever  I  have  been,  in  all  compan  e    „n, 
nrnons  all  parfes   I  have  heard  but  one  opinion  of  you.     All  a  Jec  in  e  m 
'aendtng,  ,„  the  h.ghest  terms,  your  excellent  adn,inistratio„  of  the  dom    - 


Jg>^;,.,>-^';i'j«:A.atU!«Mw-;jgwijj.v,i»>»,j.4-'»t 


JAMES  KNOX   POLK. 


[1824. 


time  being  her  favorite;  and  none  who  beheld  her 
moving  in  what  seemed  to  bo  her  appropriate  sphere, 
^iU  hesitate  to  join  in  the  hope,  that  she  may  long  be 
spared,  like  the  wife  of  Madison,  to  perpetuate  the 
xTemory  of  him  whose  name  she  bears,  and  to  witness 
the  impartial  verdiet  which  history  will  ere  long  record, 
in  justice  to  his  fame. 

'':  rSJ^rZ'r^,  '  T  -  «'aa  to  W  that  my>^^-^ 
i,  Jular  And  in  return  for  y.nr  co.npli.Hont.  I  ^iU  m  that  .f  the  co.m- 
trvTol  eltt  a  Whig  next  fa..,  I  know  of  no  on.  whose  elevat.on  would 
please  me  more  than  that  of  Henry  (lay.' 

" '  Thjnk  yovL,  thank  you,  Madam.' 

_..  .  Md  I  w  U  assure  you  of  one  thing.  If  you  do  have  oocas.on  to  occu- 
pyThe  Whfte  House  on  L  four.h  of  Mar-h  next,  it  shall  be  surrendered 
to  you  in  perfect  order,  from  garret  to  ce..ai .' 

::Bur:::t.rtu^rl"owedthi.,,^^^^ 

from  the  manner  nor  the  occasion  of  it,  d  .!  no.  permit  t..e  gu^  s  at  the 
Zr  e,  d  of  the  table  to  hear  the  re.t  of  ,W.  flay^s  ro„ly  me.her  1^ 
iT'certain  that'  heshouldbe  the  tenant  of  the  P-suent's  mans.on,  or 
Xthr  he  only  said  he  wa,  '  certain  that'  whoever  '»''»-;;/■'  ^^  J 
Ld  it  in  good  condition,  like  the  result  of  the  eommg  contest  for  the  Tresl- 
denoy,  remains  a  mystery." 


Chose 
Adi 
tcm 
tlon 
fndi 


In 

elect 

resid 

the  s 

.sua] 

c.xain 

uiidci 

mac 

quest 

Gene 

had  1 

presit 

althoi 

the  h 

to  tlie 

Th( 

intinia 

to  the 

the  na 

but  in 


1.'  i.ii  mi-j»iiBi  iiiniifliijuijii 


[1824. 

lield  her 
I  sphere, 
'  long  bo 
uate  the 
»  witness 
g  record. 


J  her  nttcn- 
annot  say  as 
in  rcgai'il  to 

Iministration 
t  if  the  coiin- 
vation  would 


ision  to  occu- 
e  surrendered 


ih  lost  nothing 
guests  at  the 
Wlicther  he 
.'a  mansion,  or 
icupy  it  would 
t  for  the  Presl- 


CHAPTER  IV 

Cliosen  a  Alombor  of  Congress— Repeated  lioelcetions-Opposition  to  Mr. 
Adams'  Administration— The  rannnia  Mis-ion  and  the  American  Syn- 
torn— Support  of  Liencral  Jackson  and  Mr.  Van  Huron— The  Tariff  Que* 
tloM—lnternnl  Improvements— The  Pension  Laws— United  States  Bank— 
Indci)«ndent  Treasury. 

In  the  spring  of  l82o,  Mr.  Polk  offered  liimself  to  the 
electors  of  the  si.xth  or  Duck  rivor  district,  in  which  he 
resided,  as  their  candidate  for  Congress.     At  this  time 
the  subject  of  internal  improvements  was  attracting  unu- 
.sual    attention  in   Tennessee,  owing,   probablj,   to  the 
examinations  recently  made  by  the  Board  of  Engineers, 
under  the  act  of  1824,  of  the  country  between  the  Poto- 
mac and  Ohio  rivers.     Indeed,  it  was  the  only  political 
question  of  importance, — except  the  manner  in  which 
General  Jackson,  whom  Mr.  Polk  had  ardently  supported, 
had  been  defrauded,  as  was  alleged  by  his  friendis,  of  the 
presidency, — that  wa?  then  agitated  or  discussed ;  for, 
although  there  had  been  several  candidates  voted  for  at 
the  late  presidental  election,  they  all  claimed  to  belong 
to  the  same  party. 

The  views  of  Mr.  Polk,  at  this  period,  as  has  been 
intimated,  were  at  least  friendly,  if  not  entirely  favorable 
to  the  construction  of  works  of  internal  improvement  by 
the  national  government.  He  had  doubts  and  mis^rivings ; 
but  in  accordance  with  what  •  appeared  to  be  the  prttvail- 
8* 


58 


JAMES   KNOX   FOLK. 


[1825-39. 


ing  sentiment  throughout  the  Union,  he  felt  inclined  to 
yield  them.  In  a  circular  letter  addressed  to  hia  con-  - 
Btituents,  on  the*  10th  day  of  May,  1825,  he  said :  "  How 
far  the  general  government  has  power  to  make  internal 
improvements,  has  been  a  question  of  some  difficulty  in 
tho  deliberations  of  Congress.  It  has  been  a  question 
long  and  ably  controverted  by  our  wisest  statesmen.  It 
seems,  however,  to  have  been  lately  settled  by  the  three 
great  departments  of  the  government  in  favor  of  the 
exercise  of  such  a  power.  •  •  *  The  expediency 
of  making  internal  improvements  is  unquestioned  ;  it  is 
only  on  the  question  of  power  that  doubt  has  arisen. 
They  are  calculated  to  promote  the  agricultural,  com- 
mercial, and  manufacturing  interests  of  the  country ; 
they  add  to  the  wealth,  prosperity,  and  convenience  of 
the  great  body  of  the  people,  by.diminishing  the  expens^cs, 
and  improving  tho  facilities  for  the  transportation  of  our 
surplus  products  to  market,  and  furnishing  an  easy  and 
cheap  return  of  those  necessarijes  required  for  our  con- 
sumption. A  judicious  system  of  internal  improvements, 
within  the  powers  delegated  to  the  general  government, 
I  therefore  approve." 

It  is  very  evident  from  the  general  tenor  of  these  extracts, 
and  from  the  catitious  mode  of  expression  made  use  of  by 
the  writer,  that  he  feared  lest  the  powers  of  the  general 
government  should  be  unduly  enlarged  by  a  latitudina- 
rian  construction  of  the  federal  constitution ;  and  as  & 
thorough-going  food  consistent  states'-rights  man,  he  had 
a  natural  dread  W)f  conceding  anything  by  way  of  impli- 
cation. It  ia  one  of  the  faults,  among  the  numberless 
blessbgs,  of  a  written  constitution,  that  those  who  orig- 


182^ 

iiiatc 
IVani 
llavi 

tlu.y 
agaii 

and 

oj)poi 

blind 

aristc 
petna 

to    CO 

care  i 

deleg] 

In 

on  th( 

alway 

vidua! 

the  p 

down 

that  " 

first  ^ 

selves 

govern 

the  pi 

and  fu 

guised 

among 

unders 

and  coi 


ij^'i*.'4i'i«ii'i'  f|i»   Jiymmi 


"I iiiiiii.i  mi 


1825-39. 

clined  to 
hia  con-  • 
t:"How 
internal 
Bcultv  in 
question 
oaen.  It 
the  three 
ir  of  the 
:pedicncy 
ed ;  it  is 
s  arisen, 
ral,  corn- 
country  ; 
nience  of 
expfnh!(.s, 
on  of  our 
easy  and 
our  con- 
)vement8, 
^emment, 

extracts, 
use  of  by 
le  general 
»titudina- 
and  as  & 
D,  he  had 
of  impli- 
iimberless 
who  orig- 


1825-39.J  VIEWS   ON-    INTERNAL    IMPUOVK.MENTS.  59 

inate  it,  and  for  wlioso  protection  it  is,  or  should  bo 
framed,  are  sometimes  lulled  into  a  false  security. 
Having  thrown  every  conceivahlc  safeguard  an.UM.l  if, 
they  are  too  apt  to  fancy  thera.elve.s  perfectly  protected 
against  the  assaults  of  open  or  seeret  enemies.      Tl,e 


irr 


reatcst  wrong  a  people  can  do,  is  to  sleep  on  their  ri-d.ts, 
and  by  so  doing,  afiurd  crafty  and  .losigning  men"  tho 
opportunity,  hut  too  frequently  seized  with  aviditv,  of 
Wmding  and  betraying  them.  The  exercise  of  powJr  by 
delegated  agents  is  in  its  nature  aristocratic,  and  like  all 
aristocracies,  seeks  to  increase  its  influence,  and  to  per- 
petuate Its  existence.  Nothing  can  be  safely  relied  on 
to  counteract  these  natural  tendencies,  but  the  closest 
care  and  scrutiny  on  the  part  of  the  principals  who  have 
delegated  the  power. 

In  a  government  constituted  hke  ours,  encroachments 
on  the  rights  of  the  states  by  the  national  authorities,  are 
always  to  be  feared.    Freemen  as  we  are,  each  man  indi- 
vidually a  sovereign,  proud  of  our  independence,  and  of 
the  privileges  and  immunities  that  have  been  handed 
down  to  us  by  our  forefathers,  we  are  too  pron-^  to  forget 
that  "eternal  vigilance  is  the  price  of  liberty;"  that  the 
first  great  duty  which  we  owe  to  our  country,  to  our 
selves  and  our  posterity,  is  to  see  that  the  purity  of  the 
government  is  maintained.     Direct  attempts  to  subvert 
the  prmciples  of  the  constitution-to  overawe  the  free 
and  full  expression  of  the  popular  will ;  open  and  undis- 
guised acts  of  tyranny  and  injustice,  are  rarely  known  ' 
among  us,  because  their  bearing  is  at  once  perceived  and 
understood,  and  they  are  sure  to  be  immediately  resisted 
and  condemned.    Designing  and  ambitious  men,  however 


l.'-"!K,ii^!J'»' 


60 


JAMES   KKOX   POLK. 


[1825-59. 


182^ 


I 


unprincipled,  rarely,  if  ever,  resort  to  overt  acta  for  the 
accomplishment  of  their  deep-laid  schemes.  On  the 
contrary,  adopting  the  motto  of  Talleyrand,  that  "  lan- 
guage is  given  to  mnn  to  conceal  his  thoughts,"  their 
chief  dependence  is  on  their  ability  to  hide  their  plans, 
an<i  to  practice  successful  deception.  Their  whole  sys- 
tem of  tactics  is  indirect  in  its  operations;  they  do 
nothing  directly, — they  work  secretly  and  in  the  dark. 
They  never  aim  to  secure  an  important  position  by  a 
single  bold  stroke  |  everything  is  effected  by  a  series  of 
slow  but  sure  advances.  If  they  are  able  to  bring  about 
the  adoption  of  a  single  measure,  without  attracting  at- 
tention to  the  secret  motives  that  originated  it,  another 
of  the  sam;:  >  uroort,  but  a  little  stronger  in  its  character, 
is  certain  to  be  ftcwsed.  These  two  secured,  their 
authors  are  encouraged  tc  frosecute  their  measures,  in  a 
regular  gradation,  till  they  reacii  the  final  result  sought 
to  be  attained.  That  once  accomplished,  the  victims 
may  struggle  vainly  and  ineffectually  in  the  toils  so  cun- 
ningly devised  to  entrap  them. 

The  history  of  the  American  government,  and  of 
its  legislation  in  particular,  abounds  in  illustrations 
:nat  will  confirm  and  enforce  the  correctness  of  these 
views.  Although  Mr.  Polk,  like  many  other  young  men 
be^pnging  to  the  republican  party,  was  disposed,  in  1825, 
to  adopt  the  impression  that  the  authority  to  construct 
works  of  internal  improvement  was  comprehended  in  the 
.  money-power  conferred  by  the  Constitution,  further  re. 
flection  and  experience  convinced  him  of  his  error.* 

•  Harbor  and  River  Veto,  August  8,   846 ;  Internal  Improremeat  Mes- 
Hgei.Deoember  16, 1847. 


A 

ber 

chat 

whoi 

was 

fouri 

latte 

in.w 

to  b( 

adop 

M 

ativc 

1825 

mem 

plica 

now  i 

niitte 

formj 

n}aint 

frequ 

and  r 

spccc 

were 

faithf 

the  se 

a  div 

House 

single 

positic 

islator 

Job; 


'.'UjW'AlUlJj^* 


■  "'SSlVi^ 


?vfT% 


'imfiv,>>inn'  %  »if!tumim>ii,i..,.i 


1825-59. 

;t8  for  the 
On  the 
uat  "lan- 
its,"  their 
icir  plans, 
vhole  sys- 
;  they  do 
the  dark, 
ition  by  a 
a  series  of 
ring  about 
•acting  at- 
it,  another 
character, 
red,  their 
sures,  in  a 
lult  sought 
he  victims 
lis  so  cun- 

t,  and  of 
lustrations 
88  of  these 
young  men 
d,  in  1825, 
}  construct 
ided  in  the 
further  re. 
Tor.* 

'oremeat  Mea- 


f 
1825-39.J         CHOSEN    A    MEMBER   OF    CONGRESS.  61 

At  the  August  election  in  1825,  he  was  chosen  a  mem- 
ber  of  Congress,  by  a  most  flattering  vote.  That  he  dis-  ^ 
charged  his  duties  to  the  entire  satisfaction  of  those 
whom  he  represented,  is  evidenced  by  the  fact,  that  he 
was  repeatedly  returned  by  the  same  constituency,  for 
fourteen  years  in  succession,  from  1825  to  1839.  In  the 
latter  year  he  voluntarily  ^yithdrew  from  another  contest, 
m.  which  his  success  was  not  even  questionable,  in  order 
to  become  a  candidate  for  the  office  of  governor  of  hia  J 
adopted  State.  •         . 

Mr.  Polk  first  took  his  seat  in  the  House  of  Represent-    " 
atives,  as  a  member  of  the  19th  Congress,  in  December, 


18-6  ;  bemg,  with  one  or  two  exceptions,  the  youngest 
member  of  that  body.    The  same  habits  of  laborious  ap-v 
plication  which  had  previously  characterized  him,  were 
now  displayed  on  the  floor  of  the  House  and  in  the  com- 
mittee-room.    He  was  punctual  and  prompt  in  the  per- 
formance  of  every  duty,   and  firm  and  zealous  in  the 
maintenance  and  advocacy  of  his  opinions.     He  spoke 
frequently,  but  was  invariably  listened  to  with  deference  '' 
and  respect,    ^e  was  always  courteous  in  debate;  his- 
speeches   had  nothing  declamatory  about  them,-tliey 
were  always  to  the  point,  always  clear  and  forcible.     So 
faithful  and  exemplary  was  he  in  his  attendance  upon 
the  sessions  of  Congress,  that  it  is  said  he  never  missed 
a  division  while  occupying  a  seat  on  the  floor  of  the 
House,  and  was  not  absent  from  the  daily  sittings  for  a 
'  single  day,  except  on  one  occasion,  on  account  of  indis- 
position.    Such  punctuality  is  rarely  witnessed  in  a  leg- 
islator, and  it  deserves  to  be  reinembered. 
John  Quincy  Adams  had  scarcely  seated  himself  in  the 


.y 


/ 


•"-m-i'^- 


i^M,m-mi«0k'-&^^^^«^':j&,j^'WJim.mmm.m,' 


62 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1825-35. 


chair  of  state,  wlicn  he  discovered  that  his  position  was 
environed  with  difficulties  and  cndiarrassir.ents.     As  a 
iiu'iiiher  of  Mr.  Monroe's  cabinet,  he  had  advocated  a  lib- 
eral  policy  in  regard  to  internal  iniproviinents,  ami  a 
hi^rh  protective  tariff".     In  his  inaugural  address,  he  took 
holder  and  more  decided  ground  than  he  had  hitherto 
(h.ne,  and  advanced  views  and  (hictrines  utterly  at  vari- 
ance with  those  cherishe<l  hy  the  old  rcpuhliean  party, 
and  trenching,  clos(ily  on   the  federal  platform  of  ISOO. 
The  iViends  of  General   Jackson,   Mr.  Crawford,   Mr. 
Callioun,  and  a  portion  of  those  who  had  supported  Mr. 
Clay,  immediately    manifested  a  disposition    vigorously 
to  oppose  the  new  administration,  the  tendency  of  which, 
as  they  maintained,  was  toward  federalism  and  consolida- 
tion. This  feeling  was  strengthened,  when  they  discovered 
in  the  appointments  to  office,  and  in  the  manner  in  which 
all  the  important  committees  of  the  19th  Congress  were 
constituted  by  the  Speaker,  a  friend  of  Mr.  Adams,  the 
certain  indications  of  an  intention  to  build  up  a  party 
with  the  President  at  its  head,  and  to  proscribe  those 
■who  were  supposed  to  be  unfriendly  to  'his  reelection. 
The  measures  of  policy,  too,  which  he  recommended, 
were  not  approved  by  the  great  majority  of  the  repub- 
lican friends  of  Jefferson,  Madison,  and  Monroe. 

Immediately  after  the  organization  of  the  two  houses 
of  .Congress,  in  December,  1825,  the  peculiar  circum- 
stances attending  the  election  of  Mr.  Adams,  through  the 
influence  and  aid  of  Mr.  Clay,  were  brought  up  in  review. 
Amendments  to  the  constitution  Avere  proposed  in  the 
Senate  by  Mr.  Benton,  of  Missouri,  providing  for  a  direct 
vote  by  the  people,  in  districts,  for  president,  and  dis- 


185 

j)en 

<ie, 

elec 

visii 

flit  II 

Ml-, 

and 

a  m; 

idi'ii 

(JeiK 

his  s 

nims 

I)ody 

force 

argu 

A  mo 

iiatiu 

I'ully 

Ar 

whicl 

tratio 

that  ( 

an  ex 

prote( 

desigi 

Th: 

Paiiai 
mindc 
priati( 
had  ti] 
posed 


■aw* 


1825-35. 

sition  was 
;«.  As  a 
itcd  a  lib- 
its,  ami  a 
s,  lie  ttiuk 
I  liitlierto 
y  at  vari- 
:an  juvrt;,', 

,1  oflsno. 

ford,  Mv. 
5rted  Mr. 

vi<:orouslv 
of  wliicli, 
consolida- 
discovcri'il 
■r  in  which 
gross  were 
Ldaius,  tho 
up  a  party 
jribc  those 
reelection. 
)min ended, 
the  rcpub- 

30. 

two  houses 
ar  circum- 
;hrough  the 
I  in  review, 
sed  in  tho 
for  a  direct 
t,  and  dis- 


1825-39.J  THE   PANAMA    iMISSION. 


G3 


ponsing  witli  the  electoral  colleges  ;  and  by  Mr.  McDuf- 
iie,  of  South   Carolina,   in   the  House,  authorizing  tho 
electors  to  be  chosen  by  districts,  and  containing"pro- 
visions  which  would  prevent  the  choice  of  prosid°)t,  in 
future,  from  devolving  on  the  House  of  Representatives. 
Mr<  Polk  made  his  debut  as  a  speaker  on  this  qi,. -.it ion, 
-•iiid  advocated  the  amendment  of  the  constitution,  iv  such 
ii  manner  as  to  give  the  choice  of  iiresido„t  and  vlce-pres- 
Hl-nt  .lirectly  to  the  people.     As  one  of  the  friends  of 
,    (.ei:erai  Jackson,  '„..  cut  t,.!  warmly 'into  the  subject,  and 
ins  speech  wag  characterized  by  what  was  with  him  an 
unusual  degre'e  of  animation  in  addressing  a  deliberative 
bo.ly.     It  was  also  distinguished  for  its  clearness  and 
lorce.  Its  copiousness  of  research,  and  the  cogency  of  it.^ 
iii-guments.     Henceforth    the   way  was   clear  for  him. 
Anion-  his  associates  were  many  of  the  ablest  men  in  the 
nation,  but  an  honorable  position  among  them  was  cheer- 
iully  assigned  to  him. 

Among  the  prominent  recommendations  of  Mr.  Adams 
which  Mr.  Polk,  with  the  other  opponents  of  the  adminis- 
tration, zealously  resisted,  were  the  Panama  Mission,  and 
that  class  of  measures,  the  chief  features  of  which  were 
an  extensive  system  of  internal  improvements  and  a  higii 
protective  tariff,  usually  comprehended  under  the  generll 
designation  of  "  the  American  System." 

The  debate  in  the  House  of  Representatives  on  tho 
Panama  IVIission,  as  the  reader  will  not  need  to  be  re- 
niimled,  arose  upon  the  bill  making  the  required  appro- 
priation for  the  purposes  of  the  mission.  Mr.  A-'^ms 
had  nppointod  commissioners  to  attend  a  congress  pro- 
posed to  be  held  at  Panama,  by  delegates  appointed  by 


'irtnUriliriiiiaML  UjitwuBW! 


"iawi.iinwfaMiijii.iuB>!. 


64 


JAMKS   KNOX    roLK. 


[1825-30. 


1825-: 


the  Spanirtli  American  states,  who  had  in  fact  achieved 
thi'ir  iiitlt'pendcnco,  tliough  still  nominally  at  war  with 
tlic  mother  country.  The  object  of  this  meeting  was  to 
form  an  alliance,  defensive  if  not  offensive,  between  the 
North  and  South  American  republics.  Mr.  Van  Buren, 
Mr.  Benton,  and  other  leading  republicans,  in  the  Senate, 
opj)Osed  the  confirmation  of  the  appointments  with  great 
ability,  but  they  were  unsuccessful.  They  endorsed,  to 
the  fullest  extent,  the  declaration  of  Mr.  Monroe,  "  tliat 
the  American  continents,  by  the  free  and  independent 
condition  which  they  have  assumed  and  maintain,  are 
lienceforth  not  to  be  considered  as  subjects  for  future  col- 
onization by  any  European  powers  ;"*  and  they  approved 
the  authoritative  announcement  made  by  Mr.  Rush  to 
Mr.  Canning,  in  1823,  that  the  United  States  would  view 
any  attempt  on  the  part  of  France  aTid  the  Continental 
Alliance  to  resubjugate  the  Spanish  American  states, 
"  as  a  trai\sccndent  act  of  national  injustice,  and  indica- 
tive of  progressive  and  alarming  ambition."! 

But,  it  was  contended,  this  proposition  to  appoint  com- 
missioners, and  the  conclusion  of  any  league  or  alliance 
as  anticipated,  would  be  a  departure  from  the  established 
policy  of  the  government ;  it  would  have  the'  inevitable 
tendency  to  involve  the  United  States  in  war  with" 
Spain,  and  eventually  with  other  European  powers  having 
possessions  in  America  that  might  be  disposed  to  revolt ; 
and  they  should  content  themselves  with  protesting 
against  any  future  colonization.    In   these  views  Mr, 


•  Annual  Message  of  Mr.  Monroe,  December  2, 1823. 
t  Rush's  Kosidence  at  the  Court  of  Loudon,  p.  430. 


Polk  c 

cially  1 

The 

but  a  Ti 

friends 

fedesal 

the  trei 

eign  rel 

the  Pre 

rcsental 

much  Je: 

a  treaty 

cial  mis 

was  den 

those   n; 

He  was 

series  of 

reproduc 

1798  in 

propriati 

of  comna 

These  re 

"  Hesol 
the  Hous( 
priations  i 
liberate  o 
and  to  del 
seem  mos( 

"  Jieaolv 


-sw 


iS5r- 


825-30. 

achieved 
mr  with 
;  was  to 
veen  tho 
1  Burcn, 
( Senate, 
th  great 
Jrsed,  to 
,  "tliat 
^pendent 
ail),  aro 
turc  col- 
pproved 
Rush  to 
akl  view 
itincntal 
I  states, 
indica- 

int  com- 
allianco 
ublished 
evitable 
B.r  witK 
s  having 
revolt ; 
otesting 
m  Mr, 


1825-39.J     HIS   RESOLUTIONS   AND   SPEECH.  66 

daltTT''?^'''  subsequently  had  oceas.on  ofB. 
cally  to  endorse  the  declaration  made  by  Mr.  Monroe.* 
Ihe  whole  question  was  freely  discussed  in  the  House, 
but  a  new  pomt  was  here  raised.  It  was  insisted  by  tho 
friends  of  the  ad„,inistration,  as  was  contended  by  tie 

h  r  r'  ?'"'  '"  '•"""''^"^  °"  ''^y^  ^-^y^  that 
the  t.eaty  making  j«wer,  and  the  management  of  the  for- 
eign relations  of  the  government,  belonge.1  exclusively  to 
tl.e  Pres.dent  and  Senate;  and  that  tl.e  House  of  Rep! 
resentntives  had  no  constitutional  right  to  deliberate  upon 
>nuch  less  to  w.U.hold  the  appropriations  necessary  to  ca^ry 
a  treaty  n.to  effect,  or  what  might  bo  required  for  a  spe^ 
e.a    m.ss.on  o    this  character.     This  Irtling  doctle 
as  denounce<l  n.  unmeasured  terms  by  Mr.  Polk  and 
hose   members  who  concurred  with  him  in  sentiment 
He  was  quite  prominent  in  the  debates,  and  offered  a 
series  of  resolutions  on  the  subject,  one   f  which  wa,  a 
reproduefon  of  the  doctrines  of  the  republican  par'of 
1798  n  regard  to  the  power  of  the  House  to  refuse  an 
propnafons,  and  the  other  condemning  the  appltm  nt" 
of  commissioners   to  attend  the  Congress  at  Panall 
These  resolutions  are  here  inserted :-  ''»«»'«'»• 

thofr^'"'^  J^'""'  •'  '^  ''''  constitutional  right  and  duty  of 
the  House  of  Representatives,  when  called  nnnn  f         ^ 
priations  to  defi-ay  tlic  evnen  J, If  T         ^        ^'  "PP™" 
iberato  on  fh/  c-^Penses  of  foreign  missions,  to  de- 

seem  most  conducive  to  the  public  .ood  ^^  ^  ^ 

"i?-W.  That  it  is  the  sense  of  this  House,  that  tho 


K. 


'  Annnal  Message.  December  2, 1945. 


i .MU  J!^lk,<tl!,l'. ^■,» ..  jg;,.^  ,y„„, .  .„ 


66 


JAMES    KNOX   POLK. 


[1825-89. 


1826- 


Ncnding  of  ministers,  on  the  part  of  tlic  United  Stiites,  to 
take  ]iart  in  tlio  (Iciihcruticnis  uf  llio  ('(ingress  of  Soiitli 
Aineritan  nations,  at  I'aiianiu,  would  bo  ii  total  dcpartuin 
from  tlu;  uniform  courso  of  j)oliey  pursued  by  this  govern- 
ment, from  the  adoption  of  the  Federal  Constitution  to  (lie 
present  period  ;  and  nii:;]it,  and  in  all  probability  would, 
have  a  tendency  to  involve  the  nation  in  '  nitdtn/liii'/ dlliaurrs,' 
and  endan!,'er  the  neutrality  and  relations  of  amity  and 
peace,  whieii  at  present  happily  subsist  between  the  I'nitcd 
States  and  the  beliinerenl  powei-s — old  Spain  and  the  south- 
era  republics  of  this  continent."* 

Mr.  Polk  defended  his  resolutions,  nnd  enforced  his 
viows  upon  the  c|nestion,  in  an  nblo  and  argnmcntativo 
speech.  IIo  maintained  ''  tliat  the  proposed  uiissioii 
to  Panaun'i  was  without  a  iirecedent  in  our  history; 
was  novel  in  its  cliaracler,  and,  in  his  judgment,  danger- 
ous to  the  bcdt  interests  of  the  country."  "We  avo 
about  to  depart,"  ho  added, ''  from  our  ancient  and  plain 
republican  simplicity,  and  to  become  a  great  and  nplendid 
{/overninent ;  new  projects  are  set  on  foot :  ^ve  are  called 
upon  by  the  Presiilent  to  change  the  whole  policy  of  tho 
country,  as  adopted  by  our  futhers,  and  so  happily  pur- 
sued by  their  jjosterity  down  to  the  present  period.  Ho 
called  cm  gentlemen,  before  they  abandoned  the  present 
safe  policy  of  the  country,  to  ponder  well  what  they  aro 
about  to  do."  "  Tho  sound  and  sober  judgment  of  tho 
people  of  the  United  States,"  he  further  contended, 
"  had  not  been  brought  up  to  the  conclusion  that  wo 
could  in  any  event  mako  conuuon  cause  with  the  repub- 


lics of 
war  in 
fpoling 
sclf-pr 
we  wei 
depart 

quent i 

ably  ir 

riently 

_upon  e\ 

ism,  toe 

entranc( 

principli 

steadfas 

adminisi 

lie  was  0 

certain  q 

ance.    I 

or  from  1 

his  entrai 

importan 

'after  was 

committei 

President 

the  proba 

after  the  i 

As  the  he 

replete  wi 


*  Coogro9sional  Debates,  vol.  ii.,  p.  21G6. 


[1825-81). 

1  States,  t(» 
s  of  South 
1   (It'piirtiiin 

llis    gOMTll- 

liou  to  tlii^ 

ilily  would, 

u/  (tlliaiiri.s,' 

Hinity   iiii'l 

tin!   I'llilfd 

I  tl»'  soutli- 


iforccd  Iii.s 
luncntativo 
I'll  iniHsioii 
r  history ; 
lit,  (laii^fcr- 
"  Wc  ilVO 
t  ami  plain 
lul  sploiiiliil 
Bare  calKil 
ilicy  of  tho 
ppily  piir- 
rioil.  Ho 
ho  present 
t  they  nro 
iOnt  of  tho 
contcnck'il, 
n  that  wo 
the  repub- 


1825-39.]  GKNERAL  RKVIEW  OF  H..  COUHSE.       67 

warm  their  behalf:  all  our  sympathies,  all  ou*r  coed 
f    mg,,  were  with  them  :  we  wished  them  succe"  -Tut 

wo  were,  then,  as  he  hoped,  we  still  were,  unnrcDarcd  m 
depart  from  our  settled  policj."*  ""Prepared  to 

"  ^"-om  this  time,  Mr.  Polk's  history,"  savs  an  .U 
quent  review  of  hh  course  in  Congress    «Z  • 
ably  interwoven  with  that  of  tlLEe      He  i.    ^'^'•" 
-ntly  eonnected  with  every  impo:     't  q" LL'Tnd 

^t^rr^'^  ^"  r-ing  instinct^^Cbw 

Princinlcs  of  T  '        '^^^^'■«"««  *«  the  cardinal 

sS  t      n  ?°""*'''  """^^'^  1ms  been  singularly 

steadfast.     Dunng  the  whole  period  of  GeneralJackson'« 
admm.strat.on  as  long  as  he  retained  a  seat  on  the  floor 
ho  was  one  of  it,  leading  supporters,  and  at  times,   nd  on 
certam  questions  of  paramount  importance,  its  chief  reH 
ance.      «  the  hour  of  trial  he  was  never  found tantW     ' 

important  Committee  ^^^^^  Ati^L^  ^1^1 
after  was  appomted,  in  addition,  chairman  of  thZT^t 
commutee  to  which  was  referred  that  poln  ^r  he 
President's  message  calling  the  attention  oTconVl  t 
to  probable  accumulation  of  a  surplus  in  the  treasury 
A    th  r^^^^^^^^      -tinguishment  of  the  nationaTS 
rL  7      i   .         '  committee,  he  made  a  lucid  report 
replete  with  the  soundest  doctrines,  ably  enforced,  deny: 

,  •CongWMion.lDeb.toi.  yol.il.,   pp.im.$4S». 


""*   * *,,!I.i»  ».((«.».!..«»-- 


68 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1825-39. 


ing  the  constitutional  power  of  Congress  to  collect  from 
the  people,  for  distribution,  a  surplus  beyond  the  \\'ant3 
of  the  government,  and  maintaining   that  the  revenue 
should  be  reduced  to  the  exigencies  of  the  public  service. 
"  The  session  of  1830  will  always  be  distinguished  by 
the  death-blow  which  was  then  given  to  the  unconstitu- 
tional system  of  internal  improvements  by  the.  gencinl 
government.    We  have  ever  regarded  the  Maysville  road 
veto  as  second  in  importance  to  none  of  the  acts  of  Gen- 
eral Jackson's  energetic  administration.     It  lopped  off 
one  of  the  worst  branches  of  the  miscalled  '  American 
system.'     Mr.  Polk  had  assailed  the  bill  before  its  pas- 
sage with  almost  solitary  energy  ;  and  one  of  his  speech- 
es,*  in  which  he  discusses  the   general  policy   of  the 
'  American  system  '  in  its  triple  aspect  of  high  prices  for 
the  public  lands—to  check  agricultural  emigration  to  the 
West,  and  foster  the  creation  of  a  manufacturing  popuhi- 
tion— of  high  duties  or  taxes  for  protection,  and  excessive 
revenue— and  of  internal  improvements,  to  spend  this 
revenue  in  corrupting  the  country  with  its  own  money,— 
should  be  perused  by  every  one  who  wishes  to  arrive  at 
sound  views  upon  a  question  which  has  so  much  agitated 
tlu-  public   mind.     When  the  bill  was  _. turned  by  the' 
President  unsigned,  a  storm  arose  in  the  House,  in  the 
iiiiast  of  which  the  veto  was  attacked  by  a  torrent  of  pas- 
sioiutte  declamation,  mixed  with  no  small  share  of  per- 
sonal abuse.     To  a  member  from  Oliio,  whose  observa- 
tions partook  of  the  latter  character,  Mr.  Polk  replied  in 
au    energetic    improvisation,   vindicating  the  patriotic 

*  On  the  Buffalo  and  New-Orleani  road  bill.  •*  - 


>OLK. 


[1825-39. 


1825-39.] 


UNITED    STATES    BANK. 


69 


ansress  to  collect  from 
plu3  beyond  the  -ft'ants 
iiing   that  the  revenue 
ea  of  the  public  service. 
lys  be  distinguished  by 
iven  to  the  unconstitu- 
^emcnts  by  thfi  gencinl 
rded  the  Maysville  road 
one  of  the  acts  of  Gen- 
stration.     It  lopped  off" 
lie  miscalled  '  American 
I  the  bill  before  its  pas- 
;  and  one  of  his  speecli- 
I   general  policy   of  tlio 
aspect  of  high  prices  for 
iltural  emigration  to  the 
a  manufacturing  popula- 
protection,  and  excessive 
►veraents,  to  spend  tliis 
y  with  its  own  money, — 
who  wishes  to  arrive  at 
lich  has  so  much  agitated 
ill  was  _. turned  by  the' 
ose  in  the  House,  in  the 
eked  by  a  torrent  of  pas- 
i  no  small  share  of  per- 
ra  Oliio,  whose  observa- 
cter,  Mr.  Polk  replied  in 
t^indicating  the  patriotic 

liuui  road  bill.        -  ' 


"^ 


resolution  of  the  Chief  Magistrate.  The  friends  of  State 
rights  in  the  House  rallied  manfully  upon  the  veto.  The 
result  was  that  the  bill  was  rejected,  and  countless  *  low- 
rolling  '  projects  for  the  expenditure  of  many  millions  of 
the  public  treasure,  which  awaited  the  decision,  perished 
in  embryo. 

''  In  December,  1832,  he  was  transferred  to  the  Com- 
mittee of  Ways  and  Means,  with  which  his  connection 
has  been  so  distinguished.     At  that  session  the  Direct- 
ors of  tlie  Bank  of  the  United  States  were  summoned  to 
Washington,  and  examined  upon  oath,  before  the  com- 
mittee just  named.     A  division  of  opinion  resulted  in  the 
presentation  of  two  reports.      That  of  the    majority, 
wliich   admitted  that  the  Bank  had  exceeded  its  lawful 
powers,  by  interfering  witli  the  plan  of  tlie  Government, 
to  pay  off  the  three  per  cent,  stock,  was  tame,  and  unac- 
companied  by   pertinent  facts,  or  elucidating  details. 
Mr.  Polk,  in  behalf  of  the  minority,  made  a  detailed  re- 
port, commnnicating  all  the  material  circumstances,  and 
presenting  conclusions  utterly  adverse  to  the  institution 
which  had  been  the  subject  of  inquiry.     This  arrayed 
against  him  the  whole  bank  power,  which  he  was  made 
to  feel  in  a  quarter  where  he    had  everything  at  stake, 
for  upon  his  return  to   his  distriet,  he  found  the   most 
formidable  opposition  mustered  against  him  for  his  course 
upon  this  question.     The  friends  of  the  United  States 
Bank  held  a  meeting  at  Nashville  to  denounce  his  report. 
The  most  unscrupulous  misrepresentations  were  resorted 
to,  in  order  to  prove  that  he  had  destroyed  the  credit  of 
the  West,  by  proclaiming  that  his  countrymen  were  un- 
worthy of  mercantile  confidence.     The  result,  however, 


^liiMftiMnriniiiKi, 


70 


JAMES  KNOX  POLK. 


[1825-39. 


was,  that  after  a  violent  contest,  Mr.  Polk  was  reelected 
by  a  majority  of  more  than  three  thousand.  FortuMately 
for  the  stability  of  our  institutions,  the  panics  wliich 
'  friphten  cities  from  their  propriety,'  do  not  sweep  with 
the  same  desolating  force  over  the  scattered  dwellings  of 

the  country. 

"  In  September,  1833,  the  President,  indignant  at  the 
open  defiance  of  law  by  the  Bank  of  the  United  State?, 
and  the  unblushing  corruption  which  it  practiced,  di  tcr- 
mined  upon  the  bold  and  salutary  measure  of  the  removal 
of  the  deposits,  which  was  effected  in  the  following  month. 
The  act  produced  much  excitement  throughout  the  coun- 
try, and  it  was  foreseen  that  a  great  and  doubtful  con- 
'  flict  was  about  to  ensue.     At  such  a  crisis  it  became  im- 
portant to  have  at  the  head  of  the  Committee  of  Ways 
and  Means,  a  man  of  courage  to  meet,  and  firmness  to 
sustain,  the  formidable  shock.     Such  a  man  was  found 
in  Mr.  Polk,  and  he  proved  himself  equal  to  the  occasion. 
Congress  met,  and  the  conflict  proved  even  fiercer  tlian 
had  been  anticipated.     The  cause  of  the  Bank  was  sup- 
ported  in  the  House  by  such  men  as  Mr.  McDufli  •, 
Adams  and  Binney,  not  to  mention  a  host  of  other  nanus. 
It  is  instructive  to  look  back  in  calmer  times,  to  the 
reign  of  terror,  known  as  the  Panic  Session.     The  Bnuk 
with  the  whol6  commerce  of  the  country  at  its  feet,  al- 
ternately torturing  and  easing  its  miserable  pensioners  as 
they  increased  or  relaxed  their  cries  of  financial  agony  ; 
public  meetings  held  in  every  city  with  scarcely  the  in- 
termission of  a  day,  denouncirig  the  President  as  a  t3- 
rant,  and  the  enemy  of  his  country  ;  deputatim.s  flocking 
from  the  towns  to  extort  from  him  a  reluctant  submis- 


'iiil 


[1825-39. 

Polk  was  reelected 
isand.  FortuMately 
,  the  panics  Aviiicli 

do  not  sweep  Avith 
altered  dwellings  of 

nt,  indignant  at  tlic 
'  the  United  States, 
it  practiced,  ditcr- 
usure  of  the  removal 
the  following  month, 
liroughont  the  coun- 
it  and  doubtful  con- 
crisis  it  became  im- 
;'ommittco  of  Ways 
leet,  and  firmness  to 
ich  a  man  was  found 
jqual  to  the  occasion. 
?d  even  fiercer  than 
■  the  Bank  was  sup- 
1  as  Mr.  McDuflie, 
host  of  other  names. 
aimer  times,  to  the 
Session.     The  liniik 
untry  at  its  feet,  al- 
serable  pensioners  as 
of  financial  agony  ; 
vith  scarcely  the  in- 
le  President  as  a  t}- 
deputations  flocking 
a  reluctant  subuiis- 


l82,";-39.]  THE    PANIC    SESSION. 


n 

J^ion  ;  Whig  orators  traversing  the  country,  and  stimu 
bating  the  passions  of  excited  multitudes,  wft  out  re  p'ct' 

-  o  the  sanctity  of  the  Sabbath;  inflamml7n 
^'ou  Is  poured  n,to  Congress  from  every  quarter     to 
^onato  almost  decreeing  itself  into  a  state^ofTerm; 

-•n-ectK,n,  and  proclaiming  that  a  revolutio™   ■ 

ti.c  c.  p  tol  postponed  to  that  of  agitation  and  nanio  • 
-  extn,ud.c  al  und  branding  sentence  pronounced T"^ 

-  no    .„.,.trate  of  the  nation,  in  vLation  of  „ 
":•!  of  the  consftution-these  features  present  but  a 


ir 


conflict  to  a  successful  issue.     Nor  should  we  for^ei'tho 
"udc   and  abundant  resources,  were  never  at  fa  ,lt      H" 


72 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1825-39. 


Mr.  McDuiBe,  the  distinguished  leader  of  the  opposition 
in  this  eventful  conflict,  bore  testimony,  in  his  concluding 
remarks,  to  the  boldness  and  manliness  with  which  Mr. 
Polk  had  assumed  the  only  position  which  could  be  ju- 
diciously taken.  The  financial  portion  of  his  speech,  and 
that  in  which  he  exposed  the  glaring  misdeeds  of  the 
Bank,  were  no  less  efficient.     When  Mr.  McDuffie  had 
concluded    the    remarks    to  which  we  have  alluded,  a 
member  from  Virginia,  [Mr.  MasonJ  after  a  few  perti- 
nent observations,  demanded  the  previous  question.     A 
mpre  intense  excitement  was  never  felt  in  Congress  than 
at  this  tlirilling  moment.     The  two  parties  looked   at 
each  other  for  a  space,  in  sullen  silence,  like  two  armies 
«  on  the  eve  of  a  deadly  conflict.     The  motion  of  Mr. 
Mason  prevailed,  the  debate  was  arrested,  and  the  di- 
vision proved  a  triumphant  victory  for  the  republican 
cause.      The  Bank   then  gave  up  the  contest  in  de- 
spair. 

"  The  position  of  the  Chairman  of  the  Committee  of 
Ways  and  Means,  at  all  times  a  most  arduous  and  re- 
sponsible one,  was  doubly  so  at  this  session,  which  will 
form  an  epoch  in  the  political  annals  of  the  country.  Mr. 
Polk  occupied  it  for  the  fii-st  time.     From  its  organiza- 
tion and  the  nature  of  its  duties,  this  c6mmittee  must  be  ^ 
at  all  times  the  chief  organ  of  every  administration  in 
the  House.     At  this  session  it  was  for  obvious  reasons 
peculiarly  so.     To  attack  it,  then,  was  to  strike  at  the 
government  ;  to  embarrass  its  action  was  to  thwart  the 
course  of  the  Administration.     Extraordinary  and  indis- 
criminate opposition  was  accordingly  made  to  all  the  ap- 
propriation  bills.    It  was  avowed  in  debate,  that  it  was 


■"I'mB'Vgammmn 


[1825-39. 

ir  of  the  opposition 
y,  in  his  concluding 
ess  with  which  Mr. 
I  which  could  be  ju- 
1  of  his  speech,  and 
ng  misdeeds  of  the 

Mr.  McDuffie  had 
we  have  alluded,  a 
J  after  a  few  perti- 
jvious  question.  A 
elt  in  Congress  than 
)  parties  looked  at 
uce,  like  two  armies 

The  motion  of  Mr. 
irrosted,  and  the  di- 
■  for  the  republican 

the  contest  in  de- 

)f  the  Committee  of 
tiost  arduous  and  re- 
8  session,  which  will 
5  of  the  country.  Mr. 
From  its  organiza- 
is  c6mmittee  must  be  ^ 
ry  administration  in 
i  for  obvious  reasons 
was  to  strike  at  the 
on  was  to  thwart  the 
raordiuary  and  indis- 
y  made  to  all  the  ap- 
a  debate,  that  it  was 


1825-39.]  THE   PANIC   SESSION. 


u 

mtlun  the  scope  of  legitimate  opposition  to  withhold  even 
ho  ordmary  supplies  until  the  deposits  were  restored  ^ 
the  Bank  of  the  United  States:  that  this  resSon 
".us  be  made,  or  revolution  ensue.  The  Bank  must  trT 
"».ph,  or  the  wheels  of  government  be  arres  J  T L" 
people  should  never  forget  the  perils  of  a  conS  whih 

t.>oStateofsuchfo:idrierrs"TLX^^^^^^^ 
-have  just  described,  threwgreat  additio„au2  „p  , 
tl      commutee,    and    particnlarly  upon  its   chairman 
i  ully  appnsed  of  the  difficulties  he  had  to  encounter  1^ 
::;:  r  H     post  wi..  .eepless  vigilance  and  utL'i  g 

explanation  upon  every  item,  however  minute,  of  the  va 
ous  appropriations.      He  was  ever  prompt  t^  meeranv 
objections^which  might  be  started,  and  of  Lick^S 
to  detect  the  artifices  to  which  fac'tious  disCuousn    s 
"  prone  to  resort.    All  the  measures  of  the  Gomm  tt 
-cludmg  those  of  paramount  importance,  relatrg^^^^^^^^^^ 
Bank  and  the  deposits,  were  carried  in  spite  of  the  most 
immitigable  opposition."* 

The  same  cordial  and  unhesitating  support  which  Mr. 
.  Polk  gave  to  the  administration  of  General  Jackson,  he 
a  80  yielded  to  that  of  Mr.  Van  Buren.  Although  on 
acc^ount  of  his  position  as  the  Speaker  of  the  House  he 
took  no  part  in  the  discussions,  he  approved  of  all  the 
prominent  measures  recommended  by  Mr.  Van  Buren 
.mcludmg  the  cession  of  the  public  lands  to  the  bZ,' 


tm-dr 


» *•»«( 


•  Bemooratio  Review,  May.  1888. 

4 


-.;,a»'" 


■  ■■~t''iiii'Hltill'iiiW'iiiiiiiii»»^t,-||,^, ,  ^  ^ 


T4 


JAMES  KNOX   POLK. 


[1825-39. 


the  preemption  law,  and  the  independent  treasury,  and 
exerted  his  influence  to  secure  their  adoption. 

In  regard  to  the  tariff  quertion,  and  the  kindred  meas- 
ure of  distribution  for  many  years  inseparably  connected 
with  it,  his  views  were  repeatedly  expressed.  In  his  re- 
port as  chairman  of  the  select  committee  <hi  the  surplus 
in  the  treasury,  made  at  the  session  of  1827-8,  he  de- 
clared his  preferences  for  a  revenue  tariff;  and  the  opin- 
ion thus  advanced  was  never  changed.  The  revenue 
tariff  which  he  favored  was  no  mere  will-o'-the-wisp,  like 
Pitt's  "treasury  wonder,"  the  sinking  fund — but  a 
practical,  substantial  reality  ;  something  which  promised 
what  it  was  intended  to  perform,  and  performed  what  it 
promised.  To  a  tariff  for  protection  merely,  he  was  ut- 
terly opposed. 

The  encouragement  of  domestic  production  and  home 
manufactures,  has  not  only  taxed  the  ingenuity  of  the 
law-makers  of  this  country  to  the  utmost ;  but  it  has 
also  been  the  theme  upon  which  fledgeling  politicians 
arid  youthful  legislators  hav^  expended  a  great  deal  of 
eloquence.  A  theory,  correct  ami  praiseworthy  in  the 
abstract,  has  been-  twisted  and  distorted  into  so  many, 
and  so  various  shapes,  that  it  has  now  become  almost 
impossible  to  recognize  it  in  the  unnatural  garb  which  it 
has  been  forced  to  assume.  The  idea  of  preserving  the 
integrity  of  our  government,  and  of  encouraging  the 
formation  of  feelings  and  habits  of  self-reliance,  so  neces- 
sary in  order  to  command  the  respect  of  foreign  nations, 
by  rendering  our  citizens  independent  of  them  for  all  ne- 
cessary  articles  of  consumption,  was  certainly  a  com- 
mendable one.    Confined  to  its  legitimate  sphere,  whea 


:.  [1825-39. 

ndent  treasury,  and 
adoption. 

1  the  kindred  meas- 
jeparably  connected 
pressed.  In  his  re- 
Lttee  on  the  surplus 
I  of  1827-8,  he  de- 
ariff ;  and  the  opin- 
ged.  The  revenue 
rill-o'-the-wisp,  like 
ihing  fund — but  a 
ling  which  promi?ed 
.  performed  what  it 
merely,  he  was  ut- 

roduction  and  home 
he  ingenuity  of  the 
utmost;  but  it  has 
iedgeling  politicians 
ided  a  great  deal  of 
praiseworthy  in  the 
lorted  into  so  many, 
now  become  almost 
ttural  garb  which  it 
ea  of  preserving  the 
of  encouraging  the 
If-reliance,  so  neces- 
!t  of  foreign  nations, 
it  of  them  for  all  ne- 
IS  certainly  a  com- 
timate  sphere,  when 


1825-39.J  A    REVENUE   TARIFF. 


carried  into  practical  effect,  it  could  not  have  failed  to 
time,  add  to  the  national  strength  au.l  security.     Its  an 

rpIVT  ''^''    *'  ""^'''P"'"  ''"•^  permanent  benefici.l 
suits  from  an  unw.se  interference  with  ti.e  natural  au.I 
unehangoable  laws  of  production,  demand,  and  suppl.. 
A   temporary  uiflation  could   be   produced,    by  forcing 
bus„.ss  and  trade  into  a  different  channel  from  that  into 
^sluch  they  ordmanly  and  properly  flowed,  but  it  was 
impossible  to  realize  any  substantial  good  from  disregard- 
ing the  instincts  winch  they  were  inclined,  through  a 
aw  of  their  nature,  to  obey.     The  foundation  of  the 
tariff  system  in  the  United  States,  was  wisely  and  pru- 
Jently  laid,  under  the  auspices  of  tl,e  founders  and  lead- 
ers of  the  republican   party.     The  causes  which  led  t'o 
the  enactment  of  the  first  law,  providing  for  the  impo- 
ition  of  duties  on  foreign  importations,  are  obvious.    At 
the  time  the  Union  was  formed,  both  the  government 
and  the  people  were  mvolved  in  debt.     It  was  necessarv 
that  a  revenue  should  be  raised  to  defray  the  annual  exl 
penses,  and  discHarge  the  liabilities  of  the  nation. 

No  other  source  presented  itself,  that  promised  to  be 
avaabble,  except  a  tariff  on  imports.  This  appeared  to 
b  the  most  feasible  plan,  and  was  therefore  adopted. 
1  he  sequel  showed  most  clearly,  that  no  better  method 
could  have  been  devised.  The  establishment  of  a  reve- 
nue tariff  system,  in  the  strict  sen.e  of  the  word,  while 
It  yielded  ample  moans  for  carrying  on  the  operations  of 
government,  also  afforded,  incidentally,  a  proper  degree 


"^■*' '-  '*-  --fi' 


76 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1825-39. 


of  encouragement  to  home  industry  and  domestic  maim- 
factures.  The  subsequent  development  of  our  own  natu- 
ral resources,  and  the  change  in  our  condition,  from  a 
titate  of  dependence  on  foreign  countries  for  the  necessi- 
ties of  life,  to  one  of  comparative  independence,  led  to 
modifications  and  alterations  in  the  system  ;  which,  for 
a  long  period  of  time,  however,  were  made  in  conformity 
to  the  great  principle  on  which  the  system  was  originally 
based.  So  long  as  the  revenue  idea  was  rigidly  main- 
tained, the  country  was  prosperous,  and  no  particular 
section  was  unduly  favored  ;  but  when  a  new  principle 
was  introduced  into  the  system,  and  protection  became 
the  controlling  feature,  instead  of  being  secondary  and 
subordinate  to  that  of  revenue,  a  different  state  of  things 
was  produced. 

Mr.  Polk  approved  of  the  act  of  1816.  He  believed 
that  the  manufactures  of  the  United  States  were  in  a 
prosperous  condition  under  that  act,  "  and  for  eight 
years  intervening  between  the  years  1816  and  182-4 ; 
and  also  tliat  the  act  of  1816  afforded  them  ample  inci- 
dental protection."*  When  he  entered  Congress,  ho 
found  the  act  of  1821:  in  force.  The  main  object  of  this 
law  was  to  afford  additional  protection  to  the  iron  manu- 
factures of  Pennsylvania,  though  other  features  far  more 
objectionable,  were  embraced  in  it.  Although  Mr.  Polk 
Avould  have  been  willing  to  encourage  the  iron  interest, 
then  in  its  infancy,  and  struggling  amid  numerous  em- 
barrassments, so  far  as  was  consistent  with  a  due  regard 

*  Speech  on  the  Bill  reported  by  the  Committee  of  Ways  and  Means  at 
the  Setsion  of  1832-33.— Congressional  Debates,  vol.  ix.,  p.  1170. 


-m^ 


1 


K.  [1825-39. 

and  (lotnestic  inatiu- 
[lent  of  our  own  natu- 
)ur  condition,  from  a 
itries  for  the  necessi- 
indepcndcnce,  led  to 
>  system  ;  which,  for 
i  made  in  conformity 
lystem  was  originally 
sa  was  rigidly  main- 
s,  and  no  particular 
rhen  a  new  principle 
id  protection  became 
being  secondary  and 
flferent  state  of  things 

■  1816.  He  believed 
ted  States  were  in  a 
act,  "  and  for  eight 
irs  1816  and  182-4 ; 
led  them  ample  inci- 
intered  Congress,  he 
le  main  object  of  this 
ion  to  the  iron  manu- 
her  features  far  more 
Although  Mr.  Polk 
ige  the  iron  interest, 
amid  numerous  em- 
snt  with  a  due  regard 

:teo  of  Ways  and  Means  at 
s,  vol.  ix.,  p.  1170. 


182o-39.J 


DIFFERENT  ACTS. 


77 


f(.r   he  other  interests  of  the  country,  ho  did  not  approve 

0  t  us  law.     In  1827,  a  poweriul  rally  was  made  by 
the  friends  of  a  high  protective  tariff  in  the  Northern  and 
Eastern  States  ;  the  producers  of  wool,  hemp,  corn,  and 
rye,  m  the  Middle  and  Western  States  j  and  the  iron 
mamilacturers  in  Pennsylvania.     At  tiio  first  session  of 
the  20th  Congress,  a  bill  was  reported  from  the  Commit- 
tee  on   Manufactures,   avowedly   for  protection.     Tlio 
struggle  in  regard  to  the  details  of  tiie  act  was  confined 
"'ainly  to  the  different  interests  united  in  support  of  the 
measure,  whose  views  were  constantly  clashing.     Mr. 
Polk,  and  the  n.einl.ers  from  the  Southern  States  gen- 
erally  resisted  the  passage  of  the-bili  at  every  step  ;  but 
when  ho  discovond  any  attempt  on  the  part  of  the  friends 
ot  Mr.  Adams,  which  was  frequently  the  case,  to  make 
pohtica  capital  cut  of  the  measure,   to  the  prejudice  of 
General  Jaekson,  upon  whom  the  opponents  of  the  ad- 
niinistration  had  united  as  their  can.lidate  for  the  presi- 
den^,  he  ma-fe  every  ex-rtion  to  prevent  such  a  result. 

1  he  act  ot  1.S28,  emphatically  called  "the  bill  of 
abominations,"  b.eame  a  law,  in  opposition  to  the  wishes 
and  tie  vote  of  Mr.  Polk.  That  it  was  an  unwise  and 
unjust  measure,  was  the  general  verdict  of  the  country  • 

didnotLf;.''  f  ""'''^'  -"-••-"d  supporters-one  who 
d  not  hghtly  change  an  opmion-subsequently  admitted, 

vo:t,gtitT 

^.1832,  Mr.   Polk  voted  for  the  act  of  that  year 
modifynig  some  of  tlie  most  objectionable  provisions  of 

*  ^"--'^  of  Sil-  Wright  in  the  V.  S.  Senate,  August  m,  im. 


r 


tmt-  II  i|.>mil«PWW|ti»' 


T8 


JAMES   KNOX   roLK. 


[182.5-39. 


tlic  law  ol"  1828.  But  ho  was  tU.spo.sod  to  go  much  Tui- 
thcr  than  this.  Tlio  evil  that  had  bcfii  done,  in  his  opin- 
ion, was  not  yet  remedied.  Tiiouj^h  lio  did  not  favor  in 
tlie  least  the  nullification  doctrines  put  forth  in  Soiilli 
C/'arolina,  but  approved  of  tho  noble  and  doterniinid  '.tand 
taken  by  General  Jackson,  and  8up[K)rted  the  force  bill 
and  other  measures  of  like  character  ;  he  felt  that  thoru 
was  grave  cause  for  blame.  He  tlt^-refuro  aided,  as  far 
ns  was  in  his  power,  to  remove  tho  grievances  wiiich  had 
given  rise  to  so  many  well-founded  complaints.  He  gavo 
his  assent  to  the  bill  reported  by  the  Committee  of  Wavs 
and  Means,  at  tho  session  of  1832-33,  mivking  further 
retluctions  in  the  duties  imposed  by  tho  law  of  1832. 
Tills  bill  eventually  gave  place  to  tho  Compromise  Act, 
which  surrendered  the  principle  of  protection  except  as  an 
incidental  result,  and  for  which  Mr.  Polk  voted.  With 
some  of  the  details  of  this  law  he  was  not  entirely  satis- 
iled,  and  at  the  ensuing  session  of  Congress  he  favored 
an  effort  then  made  to  modify  it  in  some  pJh-ticulars  ;  but 
its  general  features  and  principles  he  did  not  desire  to 
disturb.  He  thought  that  "  when  the  act  was  passed, 
every  interest  in  the  country  stood  pledged,  in  the  most 
solemn  manner,  to  adhere  to  and  abide  by  it,"  and  ho 
hoped  that  "  this  agitated  and  disturbing  subject  was  put 
at  rest  for  a  long  term  of  years,  if  not  forever."* 

His  wishes  were  not  realized.  When  the  reduction 
proposed  by  the  compromise  act  reached  its  minimum, 
the  revenue  was  found  inadequate  to  meet  the  expenses 
of  the  government,  and  to  discharge  thepublicliabilities. 

Si     •  IJtX^M  to  the  people  of  Tenneeuiee,  May  26th,  1848. 


L 


-caA^iM^iti...    .  .JiSliAiii»i 


1 


•  t  !!.»"•'«•*.' *WBU*.*= 


)LK. 


[182.5-30. 


IS2o-39.J 


poHod  to  go  rauub  I'ui'- 
btvii  done,  in  hiti  opin- 
;h  lio  did  not  favor  in 
8  put  forth  iu  SoiiUi 
!  and  dutortnini'd  -laud 
lupported  the  forco  Ijill 
tcr  ;  lie  felt  that  tlicro 
lyireforo  aided,  as  i'ai* 
)  grievances  wliioli  Imd 
complaints.  He  gavu 
he  Committee  of  \Va\  .s 
2-33,  mivkiiig  further 

by  tiio  law  of  lh3J. 

the  Compromise  Act, 
protcctiou  except  as  iin 
[r.  Polk  voted.  With 
vas  not  entirely  satis- 

Coiigress  be  favored 

some  pJh'ticulars  ;  but 
3  be  did  not  desire  to 
I  the  act  was  passed, 

pledged,  in  the  most 

abide  by  it,"  and  ho 
irbing  subject  was  put 
not  forever."* 

When  the  reduction 
reached  its  minimum, 

to  meet  the  expenses 
;e  the  public  liabilities, 

,  May  26th,  1848.     •*    -v  '- 


f-OMrBOMlSK    ACT. 


r» 


■'"P  .t  iVh.  Chlj-,  a  high  protective  tariff  hiw  was  passed 

1a  T''  '"^'  """^l"'^«''«"y  condemned  by 

tlH-  Au.er,can  people.     Mr.  Polk  was  not  in  Con.r,.^ 

^^'"^^'V'^^f^^^^-M-sed-buthctookan'^^^^^^^ 
--.on  omue  known  bis  opposition  to  the  law,  in  1 

;     r  ^  ■^^'  ""^'  '\T^  '^''  gubernatorial  canvass  of  that 

—  >  I'o  expresso,!  Ins  sentiments  ably  and  explicitly,  iu 

eIo,iuent  speech  to  the  people  of  Madison  and  th    ad- 

|-;ng  count.es,  .lelivered  at  Jackson,  on  the  3d  day  of 

tn    s„r   rr^''"^'"'  "'  '"^  '^'"'''^  ^'-  artnoxcd  ex. 
tiaots  are  taken  : — 

"  He  took  other  views,  briefly  p.-esentcd,  of  the  subject 

nd  proeee  od  to  the  discussion  of  the  Protective  Tariff  ^ 

l'-s..d  by  he  last  Con.ross.    He  sl.owed  that  it  was  a  hd  y 

''3    the  (ompromise  Tanffof  18.33,  the  tax  on  no  ininort.-d 

.'  -no,  1842.  ^o  lugher  duty  than  20  per  cent,  was  im- 
--d  on  any  art.cle  after  the  30th  of  June,  1M2,  until  the 

•  1>  ot  August.  842.  on  which  latter  day  the  present  Taritf 
'-    was  passed  by  a  Whig  Congress.     The  WWg  Congress 

l;;llu^  ^^  on   the   Compromise  Act  of°I83a,'a,:; 

"  It  was  clear,  Ihc.vlore,  that  the  late  tariff  act  was  not  a 
venue  measure.     H  bad  raised  the  rates  of  duty  so  hi,- 

s/r,:::::::'  '-^^''-  -^  --^-%  to  cut  off  aL  dim^ 

"  Judging  from   the  amount  of  revenue  received  at  the 


'aesws:^!^^^-! 


— "*'''.j«.ujS>.tiui.iii 


-mimmimmr 


80 


JAMES   KNOX    POLK. 


[1825-89 


I 


Treasury,  under  tlu-  ..i).>rati.)ns  of  tb«  prenont  Tiuiff  net.  fo. 
tl.n  1.1.1  (luurler  «.f  184'2,  a«  ulrculy  hIuiwu.  ik  will  mt  produce 
niiiuially  half  the  uinouiU  of  rovcnuo  which  would  have  heeu 
produced  by  the  lower  rates  of  the  Cuuipromise  act,  had  that 
act  been  left  undisturbed." 

•<  1 1.1  waH  opposed  to.  direct  taxes,  and  to  prohibitory  and 
protective  duties,  and  in  favor  of  such  moderate  duties  a.s 
would  not  cut  oil'  importation,  in  other  words,  he  was  m  favor 
of  rt'dticiiiK  tl>e  duties  to  the.  rates  of  the  compromise  act, 
wheie  the  Whig  Congress  found  them  on  the  30th  of  June, 

1842." 

<■  The  South,  and  he  with  them,  had  voted  for  the  net  ot 
1332,  because  it  was  a  reduction  of  the  rates  of  the  act  of 
182S,  though  by  no  means  bo  1o\v  lis  ho  would  have  desired 
it  to  be;  s"till  it  was  the  greate.4  reduction  which  could  bo 
attained  at  the  time  of  its  passage." 

"  Distribution  and  a  Protective  Tavift— measures  which  I 
consider  ruinous  to  the  interests  of  the  country,  and  especially 
to  the  intenssts  of  the  planting  states-l  have  steadily  and  at 
nil  times  opposed." 

When  Mr.  Polk  became  a  candidate  for  the  prcsiilency, 
his  opinions  and  views  on  the  tarifl'  question  were  much 
inrpured  after,  and  were  frequently  misrepresented.  In 
order  to  prevent  further  misapprehension,  he  addressed 
the  following  letter  to  Judge  Kano  of  Philadelphia,  in  re- 
,,!v  t>.  oiii-  i)n;viously  received  from  that  gentleman, 
making  inquiries  with  reference  to  his  sentiments  :— 

Cm.t'MniA,  ToiiiiLJSco,  .Tuiio  19t'i,  1844. 

Deaii  Sir  :— I  have  received  recently  several  letters  in 
rofcvenei'  to  mv  opinions  on  the  subject  of  the  tariff,  and 
among  others  yours  of  the  80th  ultimo.    My  opinions  on 


.K. 


[1825-89 


prt'Hont  Tiiriff  act,  fo> 
vvn,  ikwiU  not  product 
hich  would  Imvi!  boon 
inproinisti  net,  had  tlmt 

^nd  to  prohibitory  and 
:h  niodcruto  duties  as 
1-  words,  he  was  in  fiivor 
f  the  compromise  act, 
I  on  the  30th  of  June, 

d  voted  for  the  act  of 
lie  rates  of  the  act  of 
lie.  would  have  desired 
uction  which  could  bo 

,i(T — measures  which  I 
country,  and  especially 
-I  have  steadily  and  at 


ate  for  the  prcsulency, 
1'  question  were  raucli 
y  misrepresented.  In 
heiision,  he  addressed 
of  Pliiladelphia,  in  re- 
VuHi  that  <;eutleman, 
his  sentiments : — 

rciirussco,  Juno  19th,  1844. 

cently  several  letters  in 
bject  of  the  tariff,  and 
timo.     My  opinions  on 


'*!  ^g,^',  W'tm. I;, 


1S25-39.J 


4mi_ui.ittm'm» 


THE   KANE    LETTER. 


81 


this  subject  liavo  boon  often  given  to  the  public.  Thoy 
are  to  bo  found  in  my  public  acts,  and  in  tlio  public  dis- 
cussions in  which  I  have  participated. 

I  am  in  favor  of  a  tariff  for  revenue,  such  a  ono  as  will 
yield  a  sufficient  amount  to  the  treasury  to  defray  tlio 
expenses  of  the  government  economically  administered. 
Ill  adjusting  tho  details  of  a  revenue  tariff,  I  have  hereto- 
fore sanctioned  such  moderate  discriminating  duties,  as 
would  produce  tho  amount  of  revenue  needed,  and  at 
the  same  timo  afford  reasonable  incidental  protection  to 
our  home  industry.  I  am  opposed  to  it  tariff  for  protec- 
tion merely,  and  not  for  revenue. 

Acting  upon  these  general  principles,  it  is  well  known 
that  I  gave  my  support  to  the  policy  of  Gen.  Jackson's 
administration  on  this  subject.  I  voted  against  tho  tariff 
act  of  1828.  I  voted  for  tho  act  of  1882,  which  contained 
modifipfillons  of  some  of  the  objectionable  provisions  of 
the  act  of  1828.  As  a' member  of  tho  Committee  of 
Ways  and  Means  of  the  House  of  Representatives,  I  gave 
my  assent  to  a  bill  reported  by  that  Committee  in  Decem- 
ber, 1832,  making  further  modifications  of  tho  act  of 
1828,  and  making  also  discriminations  in  tho  imposition 
of  the  duties  which  it  proposed.  Tho  bill  did  not  pass, 
but  was  superseded  by  the  bill  commonly  called  tiio  Com- 
promise bill,  for  which  I  voted. 

In  my  judgment,  it  is  tho  duty  of  the  government  to 
extend,  as  far  as  it  may  be  practicable  to  do  so,  by  its 
revenue  laws  and  all  other  means  within  its  power,  fair 
and  just  protection  to  all  the  great  interests  of  tho  whole 
Union,  embracing  agriculture,  manufactures,  the  mechanic 
arts,  commerce  and  navigation.     I  heartily  approve  the 


"jmjj>j,^  .gj- 


t-9?4faJ!C.ar^a,-^>WjV,i 


dfi 


JAMES   KNOX  POLK. 


[1825-39. 


resolutions  upon  this  subject,  passed  by  the  Democratic 
National  Convention,  lately  assembled  at  Baltimore. 
I  am,  with  great  respect, 

Dear  sir,  your  ob't  serv't, 
'     ''  James  K.  Polk. 

John  K.  Kane,  Esq.,  Philadelphia- 


h 


', 


'  This  letter  indicates  Avhat  were  the  sentiments  of  its 
author  on  the  subject  to  which  it  related,  as  clearly  and 
distinctly  as  lanj^nge  could  express  them.  He  was  in 
favor  of  a  tariff  yielding  sufEcient  revenue  to  support  the 
government  economically  administered,  and  which  should 
afford,  at  the  same  time,  incidental  protection  to  all  the 
various  interests  of  the  country.  He  was  willing  to  en- 
courage manufactures  to  this  extent,  but  he  was  not  dis- 
posed to  favor  them,  to  the  injury  of  other  interests.  A 
high  protective  system  he  could  not  countenance.  He 
saw  how  it  had  operated  in  England,  where  a  powerful 
aristocracy  were  maintained  in  luxury  and  idleness,  and 
a  corrupt  and  expensive  government  supported,  out  of 
the  hard-earned  substance  of  the  yeoman,  the  laborer,  and 
the  operative ;  and  history  taught  him,  that  whenever 
and  wherever  it  had  been  adopted,  it  had  brought  the 
poorer  classes  to  abject  penury  and  want,  and  reduced 
them  to  a  condition  of  slavish  dependence  on  the  wealthy 
and  more  favored  classes. 

Entertaining  such  views,  he  cordially  approved  of  the 
revenue  tariff  of  1846.  All  its  main  features  harmonized 
with  his  own  convictions  ;  ho  did  not  consider  it  perfect 
in  all  its  parts,  but  as  a  whole  it  was  satisfactory  to  him  j 


— <-'»r><N^.a>^il'^w 


'-W,'--.h'M'»l"' 


[1825-39. 


by  the  Democratic 
[  at  Baltimore. 


AMES  K.  Polk. 


sentiments  of  its 
ted,  as  clearly  and 
them.  He  was  in 
inue  to  support  the 
,  and  which  should 
rotection  to  all  the 
was  willing  to  cn- 
ut  he  was  not  dis- 
)ther  interests.  A 
countenance.  He 
where  a  powerful 

and  idleness,  and 
supported,  out  of 
m,  the  laborer,  and 
m,  that  whenever 

had  biought  the 
\ant,  and  reduced 
ice  on  the  wealthy 

y  approved  of  the 
atures  harmonized 
consider  it  perfect 
iSsfactory  to  him ; 


''  ~'  .  tWJ^-"^ 


.'H!iniiiyij"ii|ifiymi.iy  I'-,;)  j 


1826-39.J 


UNITED   STATES   BANK. 


83 


and  the  bill  received  his  signature,  as  it  met  with  his 
approbation. 

Whenever  and  howsoever  any  of  the  objectionable 
features  of  the  "  American  System,"  wore  brought  for- 
ward in  Congress,  they  encountered  the  determined  and 
unyielding  opposition  of  Mr.  Polk.     He  planted  himself 
upon  what  he  conceived  to  be  the  impregnable  doctrines 
of  the  Maysville  road  veto,  and  refused  to  be  driven  from 
his  position.     If  he  had  ever  been  in  doubt  in  respect  to 
the  propriety  of  constructing  works  of  internal  improve- 
ment in  the  states  by  the  general  government,  his  expe- 
rience as  a  legislator  led  him  to  reflect  carefully  upon  the 
subject.    He  saw  how  the  power  which  had  been  inferred 
from  the  Constitution,  had  been  abused;  and  when  a 
careful  examination  of  that  instrument  resulted  in  dis- 
covering no  positive  warrant  for  the  authority  which  had 
been  claimed  by  the  friends  of  the  "  American  System-' 
to  belong  to  the  national  government,  he  denied  its  ox-, 
istence  altogether. 

During  his  service  in  Congress,  he  was  the  steadfast 
friend  of  the  survivmg  oflScers  and  soldiers  of  the  revolu- 
tion. No  one  did  more  than  he  to  establish  and  perfect 
the  pension  system,  and  he  was  particularly  active  in  his 
efforts  to  extend  its  benefits  to  the  officers  and  soldiers  of 
the  militia. 

He  was  among  the  earliest  opponents  of  the  recharter 
of  the  United  States  Bank ;  and  in  the  month  of  August, 
1829,*  in  a  letter  addressed  to  his  constituents,  he  avowed 

*  This  was  seyeral  months  previous  to  the  appearance  of  General  Jack- 
eon  «  first  message.  , 


«!w«sie^ii[M».!jMia«8s^fesr;uJiijia^^    M}imk,mia:y'-M^«*-t)mtMj,,..si,ji,^ig!!^ 


84  « 


JAMES   Kl^OX   POLK. 


[1825-39. 


his  convictiofig  to  t)o  irreconcilaWy  opposed  to  the  exist- 
ence of  such  an  institution,  and  denied  both  its  constitu- 
tionality and  expediency.  He  supported  and  defended 
the  administration  of  General  Jackson  during  the  exciting 
ciiitest  with  the  bank,  and  approved  and  justified  the 
r*'itioval  of  the  deposits.  With  General  Jackson  and  ]Mr. 
Vitn  Buren,  he  was  at  first  favorable  to  the  state  bank 
deposit  system  ;  but  when  he  saw  how  total  was  its  fail- 
ure to  answer  the  expectations  of  himself,  and  his  friends 
and  coadjutors,  he  hailed  the  project  of  an  independent 
treasury  recommended  by  Mr.  Van  Buren,  as  the  great 
desideratum  in  the  financial  system  of  the  government. 
This  measure  received  his  unqualified  approbation,  and 
at  all  times  and  on  all  occasions,  he  expressed  himself 
unreservedly  in  its  favor.  He  had  the  proud  satisfaction, 
too,  in  the  first  year  of  his  administration,  of  approving, 
in  an  official  character,  the  bill  which,  at  the  close  of  his 
public  career,  remained  unrepealed  on  the  statute-book, 
—a  bill  which  had  risen,  like  the  Phoenix  from  his  pyre, 
from  the  ashes  of  obloquy  and  persecution,  and  was  pro- 
c'aimed  the  law  of  the  land,  in  accordance  with  the 
expressed  will  of  the  Nation. 


ii'r'-'r- 1----'* '^'ri.-t^i-^'^^ij,  3^-.^.i.ia^...^.-.^ 


r  [1825-39. 

•posed  to  the  exist- 
[1  both  its  constitu- 
rtcd  and  defemh-d 
during  the  exciting 
:  and  justified  the 
il  Jackson  and  ]Mr. 
to  tlie  state  hank 
I,'  total  was  its  fail  - 
self,  and  his  friends 
of  an  independent 
iuren,  as  the  great 
f  the  government, 
d  approbation,  and 
expressed  himself 
I  proud  satisfaction, 
ation,  of  approving, 
,  at  the  close  of  his 
n  the  statute-book, 
Knix  from  his  pyre, 
ution,  and  was  pro- 
;cordance  with  the 


;  y'n    '"  ^'.M'  '}■>'' 


CHAPTER  V. 

Dissensions  in  tho  Rppubliciui  Piuty  in  Tennesseo-Xomination  of  JmlKe 
White  to,-  tlio  Presi(lem-y— Course  of  Mr.  Polk— Clio^on  Speaker  of  tho 
House  of  lieprosentiitives—Iletlected— Character  as  a  Presiding  Officer- 
Vote  of  Thanks — FarewuU  /i^ldress.  , 

Although  the  vote  of  Tennessee,  given  at  tho  presi- 
dential election  in  1828,  was  almost  unanimous  in  favor 
of  General  Jackson,*  indications  of  dissatisfaction  were 
manifested  by  some  of  the  most  prominent  members  of 
the  republican  party  in  that  state,  at  an  early  period  of 
his  administration.     It  was  impossible  for  him  to  gratify 
all  the  numerous  applicants  for  office,  and  those  who  were 
disappointed,  though  they  took  care  to  conceal  their  cha- 
grin, cherished  many  an  unfriendly  feeling  at  heart,  that 
only  required  an  occasion  for  its  exhibition.     But  while 
his  personal  fortunes  appeared  to  be  at  stake,  nothing  like 
open  opposition  was  witnessed ;  he  had  firmly  secured 
the  love  and  respect  of  the  people  of  Tennessee,  and  a 
whisper  against  his  fair  fame  aroused  their  indignation. 
His  name,  like  that  of  Hafed,  was  a  "  name  of  fear  ;" 
and  .if  murmurs  were  ever  heard,  they  were  directed 
toward  those  who  were  said  to  bo  his  confidential  friends 
and  advisers. 

As  the  time  approached,  however,  for  the  selection  of 
his  successor,  the  elements  of  discord  and  disaffection 

*  There  were  only  about  twenty-two  hundred  votes  cast  for  the  Adami 
electors  u  the  whole  state. 


ifil  11  "i^ilHilnif^ifi^i 


-  ■<mtg/mim$:^m 


glCM.'i,.i»ia!!i.jias!ij! 


86 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1834. 


were  more  plainly  visible.     His  preferences  for  Mr.  Van 
]3uren  were  well  known,  as  they  were  never  disguised. 
But  in  Tennessee,  a  large  portion   of  the   rcpublicaii 
party  were  in  favor  of  Hugh  L.  White,  an  estimable 
and  talented  citizen  of  that  state,  then  one  of  its  Senators 
ill  Congress ;  and  they  desired  to  have  him  duly  brouglit 
forward  by  a  legislative  nomination,  as  their  candidate 
for  the  presidency.     Unsuccessful  attempts  were  made 
to  induce  the  legislature  to  make  the  desired  nomination, 
and  a  similar  effort  at  the  convention  called  to  revise  tliu 
state  constitution,  in  the  spring  of  1834,  likcAvise  failed 
of  success.     In  tlie  neighboring  state  of  Alabama,  the 
friends  of  Judge  White  were  more  fortunate ;  and  in  the 
month  of  January,  1835,  the  legislature  of  that  state 
nominated  him  as  their  candidate  for  the  succession, — 
but  with  the  reservation,  and  upon  the  condition,  that  lio 
should  be  "  the  choice  of  the  republican  party  throughout 
the  Union." 

Governor  Carroll,  Ex-Governor  Blount,  Felix  Grundy, 
James  K.  Polk,  Cave  Johnson,  and  other  discerning 
men  in  the  republican  ranks  in  Tennessee,  saw,  at  a 
glance,  that  the  prospects  of  Judge  White  were  utterly 
hopeless.  Indeed,  it  was  idle  to  presume  that  the  condi- 
tion mentioned  in  the  resolution  of  the  Alabama  legisla- 
ture would  ever  take  place.  Tennessee  had  been  honored 
Avith  a  president  of  her  own  choice,  for  eight  years  in 
succession ;  and  there  was  nothing  in  the  public  services, 
or  in  the  character  of  Judge  White,  that  peculiarly  enti- 
tled him  to  inherit  this  distinction,  in  opposition  to  the 
candidates  whose  nomination  was  desired  in  other  states. 
Besides,  the  general  sentiment  of  the  republican  party  in 


-  Itl"!*'-""-""''*'*'^ 


"'^•'."H.".,  '.fWWItijI'ii.  ,»in.i*(. 


[1834. 

ences  for  Mr.  Van 
e  never  disguised, 
of  the  rcpubliciUi 
lute,  an  estimable 
one  of  its  Senators 
t  him  duly  brouglit 
as  their  candidnto 
tempts  were  made 
lesired  nomination, 
called  to  revise  tlio 
534,  likeAvise  failed 
i  of  Alabama,  tlio 
tunate ;  and  in  the 
tnre  of  that  state 
r  the  succession, — 
3  condition,  that  ho 
m  party  throughout 

(unt,  Felix  Grundy, 
d  other  discerning 
jnnessee,  saw,  at  a 
White  were  utterly 
ume  that  the  condi- 
e  Alabama  legisla- 
ee  had  been  honored 
,  for  eight  years  in 
the  public  services, 
;hat  peculiarly  enti- 
in  opposition  to  the 
ired  in  other  states. 
republican  party  in 


1834.] 


HIS   COURSE. 


87 


the  nation,  as  manifested  in  a  thousand  ways,  and  in  the 
n.qst  unequivocal  manner,  had  indicated  a  decided  -^ref- 
crcnce  for  Mr.  Van  Buren. 

Mr.  Polk  and  his  friends  were  disposed  to  yield  a 
nady  acquiescence  to  what  appeared  to  be  the  controllin.^ 
desire  of  their  republican  friends  out  of  Tennessee.     He 
uas  Inmself  urgently  solicited  to  join  in  some  public 
n.amfestation  in  behalf  of  Judge  White;  but  he  firmlv 
and  constantly  refused  to  lend  his  name  or  his  influence 
or  any  such  purpose.     He  esteemed  Judge  White  for 
ins  virtues  and  talents,  and  was  averse  to  taking  ground 
decKledly  against  him,  although  he  saw,  that  his  suscep- 
tibility to  flattery  had  been  taken  advantage  of  by  his 
particular  friends,  and  the  opponents  of  the  administra- 
tion  ,n  order  to  distract  and  divide  the  republican  party  ' 
at  the  approaching  presidential  election.      Personally, 
Mr.  Polk  was  not  in  the  least  degree  unfriendly  to  the 
political  advancement  cf  Judge  White;  but  he  had  none 
ot  that  false  state  pri  le,  which  woul.l  have  led  him  to 
oppose  and  denounce,  as  he  was  desired  to  do,  the  pre- 
ferred candidate  of  the  republicans  throughout  the  Union 
Meanwhile,  the  course  of  Judge  White  and  his  friends 
was  not  calculated  to  increase  his  popularity  amon-r  the 
supporters  of  General  Jackson's  administration.     On^ov 
oral  occasions  he  had  given  evidence  of  a  disposition  to 
t.iwart  the  President  in  some  of  his  favorite  and  leading 
ineasures.     At  the  session  of  1S33-.:J4,  he  voted  agains'J 
the      three  million  amendment"  to  the  fortification  bill  • 
he  opposed,  also,  the  Ross  treaty,  and  the  expunging  res- 
olutions of  Mr.  Benton  ;  and  he  supported  the  n^ovement 
made  by  the  Whigs  in  Congress,  predicated,  as  they 


WMer-sswiass 


'^^^'^'^stmmmmfSm-mmegKmffetT. 


jii»*m'ujt,im'_. 


88 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1834. 


alleged,  upon  their  fears  with  respect  to  the  union  of  the 
purse  and  the  sword  in  the  hands  of  the  President,  to  re- 
duce the  Executive  patronage  and  power. 

In  the  House  of  Representatives,  the  White  interest 
was  represented  by  John  Bell,  one  of  the  colleagues  of 
Mr.  Polk,  and  between  whom  there  had  long  existed  a 
sort  of  rivalship.     Both  claimed  to  be  the  sincere  friends 
of  General  Jackson,  and  both  approved  of  the  veto  of  the 
United  States    Bank,  and  th»  removal  of  the  deposits. 
But  Mr.  Bell  was  in  favor  of  the  incorporation  of  another 
bank,*  while  Mr.  Polk,  in  accordance  with  what  had  now 
become  one  of  the  cardinal  doctrines  of  the  party  to  which 
he  belonged,  as  it  had  been  one  of  the  tests  of  the  old  re- 
publican creed,  avowed  his  uncompromising  hostility  to 
any  such  institution.     The  latter,  therefore,  was  the  most 
popular  with  the  republican  members  of  the  House,  and 
was  more  particularly  honored  v  ith  the  confidence  and 
friendship  of  President  Jackson,  r.wl  tlie  principal  leaders 
of  the  republican  pavtv.     In  Jun',  1834,  the  Speaker  of 
the  House,  Andrew  Stevenson,  of  Virginia,  resigned  his 
seat  in  Congress,  in  consequence  of  his  nomination  as 
Minister  to  Great  Britain.     Mr.  Polk  was  instantly  se- 
lected by  the  majority  of  the  republican,  or  democratic! 
members,  as  the  administration  candidate  for  the  vacant 

*  Speech  of  Mr.  Boll  on  Mr.  t'liiyton"s  Kcsoliition,  1832. 

t  About  the  time  of  the  first  election  of  General  Jackson,  in  1828,  his 
frienils  and  supportci-s  began  to  a.s-'nino  the  part;  designation  of  demncrcts, 
or  (km  .cralkn]iiiblknng,—thv  former  term,  previous  to  that  time,  havinR 
been  goncrally  regarded  as  one  of  reproach.  'J'iic  opiionents  of  his  adminis- 
tration called  themselves  nation  d  rcimbliran-^.  unli!  18:31,  when  they  as- 
sumed the  name  of  whlga  Since  that  date  th.-  t.vo  Rieat  p.utiei  have  been 
usually  designated  as  K*)g.sand  .temccaU.  11'..  ndhercnl.-  '.f  .Tudgo  White 
in  Tcnneesee,  elaimed  to  bo  the  ••  no-party  par;y."' 


i  \ 


.:. J-.. iTT"-*-'- •'"'''  ^-'^^^■'"'^'■■rf'i"*" 


[1834. 

the  union  of  the 

President,  to  re- 
jr. 
le  White  interest 

the  colleagues  of 
ad  long  existed  a 
the  sincere  friends 

of  the  veto  of  the 
1  of  the  deposits. 
)oration  of  another 
with  what  had  now 
the  party  to  which 
;ests  of  the  old  re- 
mising hostility  to 
L'fore,  was  the  most 
of  the  House,  and 
he  confidence  and 
ic  principal  leaders 
31,  the  Speaker  of 
■ginia,  resigned  his 

his  nomination  as 
:  was  instantly  se- 
jan,  or  democraticf 
idate  for  the  vacant 

m,  1832. 

■al  Jackson,  in  1828,  his 
designation  of  demnrrnti, 
ions  to  that  time,  having 
o)j])onents  of  his  aiiminis- 
iilil  1*31,  wlieu  thoy  as- 
,'0  great  piirtioi  have  been 
iiilherenl.--  of  .luilgo  White 


.iwt II I  iTMi  iffli».i I rr'"'"^  tf-||f.i..T. 


1 


1835.J 


"r,    LiT-t     '-r-pi 


SUPPORT   OF  MR.   VAN   BUREN. 


89 


position.  But  the  friends  of  Judge  White  refused  to 
■support  him,  and  voted  for  Mr.  Boll,  who,  with  the  aid 
of  tlie  Whig  members,  was  elected  over  Mr.  Polk  on  the 
tenth  ballot. 

In  the  month  of  January  following,  the  Alabama  nomi- 
nation was  made,  as  has  been  mentioned  ;  and  during  the 
f^anie  jcssion  of  Congress,  the  Tennessee  delegation  in 
tlio  House,  with  the  exception  of  Mr.  Polk  and  Cave 
Johnson,  united  in  recommending  the  support  of  Judge 
White  for  the  Presidency.  Mr.  Bell,  it  is  said,  originally 
preferred  Colonel  Richard  M.  Johnson,  of  Kentucky  ;  but 
the  views  of  the  latter  in  regard  to  the  incorporation  of  a 
national  bank  not  being  satisfactory  to  him,  he  connected 
himself  with  the  fortunes  of  Judge  White. 

Shortly  after  the  adjournment  of  Congress,  Mr.  Van 
Buren  was  regularly  put  in  nomination  as  the  rfpublican 
candidate  for  President,  by  the  unanimous  voice  of  the 
national  convention  assembled  at  Baltimore  in  May,  1835. 
Mr.  Polk  took  no  part  in  calling  or  recommending  this 
convention.     It  was  entirely  a  new  movement,  and  orig- 
iuiited  mainly  in  a    desire  to  organize  the  republican 
party  in  a  most  efficient  manner,  in  anticipation  of  a  pow- 
erful effort  on  the  part  of  the  opponents  of  the  adminis- 
tration to  defeat  their  candidates.     After  the  nominations 
^Acrc  made,  and  received  with  an  almost  universal  ex- 
pression of  approbation  in  every   State  in  the  Union, 
Tennessee  alone  excepted,  Mr.  Polk  announced  his  de- 
termmation  not  to  separate  himself  from  the  republican 
party  of  the  nation.     Messrs.  Carroll,  Blount,  Grundy 
and  Johnson,  agreed  with  him  in  sentiment,  and  active 
preparations  were  imm^cliateJj^  made  to  carry  the  state 


*^'^'i^ai!ife^»&'ji!«wffiai!Ji(j|iiMiJr? 


^•mjjik,-.>r-i,m>'. 


»*«?-« 


ib 


JAMES  KNOX  POLK. 


[1885. 


fit  the  gubernatorial  and  congressional  elections,  in  Au- 
gust, 1885.  But  the  time  proved  too  short  to  counteract 
the  impressions  which  had  been  formed,  and  to  change 
the  direction  of  the  popular  current.  The  Whigs  united 
with  the  friends  of  Judge  White,  and  succeeded  in  de- 
feating Governor  Carroll,  who  was  nominated  for  re- 
election, and  all  the  administration  candidates  for  Con- 
gress, save  Mr.  Polk  and  Mr.  Johnson. 

The  triumphant  return  of  these  two  individuals  was 
particularly  disagreeable   to  the    combined  opposition. 
The  most  powerful  efforts  had  been  made  to  defeat  them, 
and  their  opposition  to  Judge  White  was  arrayed  against 
them,  through  the  press,  and  the  harangues  of  public 
Kpcakcrs,  in  every  conceivable  shape  and  form.     Mr. 
Polk  was  assailed  in  his  district  with  especial  vehemence  ; 
but  when' his  opponents  discovered  that  all  efforts  to  do- 
feat  his  reelection  were  useless,  and  that  it  was  impossible 
to  overcome  his  strong  personal  popularity,  they  sought 
to  pledge  him  to  the  support  of  Mr.  Bell  for  the  speaker- 
ship, in  opposition  to  any  candidate  beside  himself. 
•  He  had  no  terms  to  offer,  or  to  accept,— no  bargain  to 
suggest,  or  to  conclude.    He  went  before  the  people, 
and  defended  his  course  and  conduct,  from  the  stump,  in 
right  good  earnest.     In  a  speech  addressed  to  his  con- 
stituents on  the  20th  of  May,  and  before  the  Baltimore 
nominations  were  announced,  he  declared  that  he  had  at 
all  times  been  willing  to  see  Judge  White  elevated  to  the 
presidency,  since  his  name  had  been  spoken  of,  if  it  could 
be  done  by  the  political  party  to  which  they  both  be- 
longed ;  "  and,"  said  he,  "  if  at  any  time  hereafter,  the 
public  sentiment  in  the  democratic  republican  states,  in 


[1885. 

elections,  in  Au- 
ihort  to  counteract 
id,  and  to  change 
The  Whigs  united 
I  succeeded  in  de- 
iiominated  for  re- 
mdidates  for  Con- 
1. 

fO  individuals  was 
nbined  opposition, 
ade  to  defeat  them, 
ras  arrayed  against 
irangues  of  public 
5  and  form.     Mr. 
special  vehemence  ; 
lat  all  efforts  to  dc- 
at  it  was  impossible 
ilarity,  they  sought 
ell  for  the  speaker- 
eside  himself, 
ept, — no  bargain  to 
before  the  people, 
from  the  stump,  in 
idresscd  to  his  con- 
sfore  the  Baltimore 
ared  that  he  had  at 
'hite  elevated  to  the 
poken  of,  if  it  could 
'hich  they  both  be- 
'  time  hereafter,  the 
republican  states,  in 


1P35.J 


rilKSIDENTIAL    ELECTION. 


01 


^vhatevor  fair  mode  ascertained  or  expressed,  shnll  indi- 
cate h„n  as  the  cluuce  of  the  body,  or  of  a  n.ajo.itv  of 
he_r,.publ.can  supporters  of  the  present  adnuni.s.nuion, 
I  ^vl  be  found  uniting  with  them  in  I,Ls  support.  Bnl 
I'-.t.l  such  indieationshallbo  given,  nvill  wait  and  see 
upon  .horn  the  great  body  of  our  f,iends  of  the  san,,.  •„- 
-t.eal  faith  m  other  states  do  concentrate  ;  an.I  uL 
l..m,  whomsoever  he  may  be,  in  n,y  opinion,  all  should 

"  Were  I  to  give  an  opinion,"  he  nd.led,  "  as  to  what 
he  course  of  the  opposition  would  ultin.ateiy  be,  iud^in,. 
^    f'om  theconductof  theleadersofthatpartvin  Congress  I 
^^hould  say  that  they  would  wait,  in  the  hope  that  wc  would 
become  excited,  divided,  and  arrayed  against  each  other, 
betAm<n  two  or  more  candidates  of  our  p.rtv,  so  that  we 
could  not  be  reunited  ;  and  having  eireeted'this'by  false 
pretence  of  intended  support  to^ne  of  our  party,  it  will 
only  be  necessary  to  sound  a  bugle  to  rally  the  whole 
strength  of  the  opposition  upon  one  of  theii-  own  men 
Shou  d  we  divide  to  any  great  extent,  none  can  suppose 
hat  the  ambitious  men  who  lead  the  opposition,  will  not 
ake  advantage  of  our  divisions  and  run  a  candidate  of 
their  own." 

On  the  8th  of  June,  during  the  term  of  the  county  ' 
court,  Mr.  Polk  addressed  *he  citizens  of  Maury  in  still 
more  eloquent  and  animated  terms.  He  defended ^tho 
administration  of  General  Jackson  from  tie  charges  of 
the  opposition,  and  repelled  with  manly  generosity  and 
rlisinterestedness  the  attacks  mada  upon  Mr.  Van  Bureu 
by  us  enemies.  He  pointe.l  out  the  folly  of  supportin-^ 
Judge  White  for  the  presidency,  unless  it  was  done  for 


■T^ 


M 


JAMES   KNOX   POr.K. 


[1835. 


tlio  express  purpose  of  distracting  and  dividing  the  ro 
piiblican  party,  so  tliattho  elect idu  would  devolve  on  tlie 
House  of  Ueprcsentativea.  Ho  said  he  had  taken  no  part 
in  the  Baltinioro  convention,  nor  in  the  nomination  made 
by  his  colleagues  ;  but  he  declared  that  "  as  a  citizen, 
he  would'support  for  the  presidency  that  man  who  was 
tiie  choice  of  the  great  body  of  the  republicans  of  the  na- 
tion," at  the  same  time  pledging  himself,  if  the  election 
went  before  the  House,  to  carry  out  the  will  of  the  peo- 
ple of  his  district. 

The  predictions  of  Mr.  Polk  were  verified.  Judge 
White  ultimately  received  the  support  only  of  the  oppo- 
nents of  the  administration  and  of  the  friends  of  the  United 
States  Bank,  except  that  in  a  very  few  instances  ho  ob- 
tained the  votes  of  persons  in  the  Southern  Stiitcs,  who 
thought  Mr.  Van  Burcn  would  be  unable  to  carry  them, 
and  desired  to  prevent  the  election  of  General  Harrison, 
the  whig  candidate  at  the  north.  In  the  State  of  Ten- 
nessee, Mr.  Polk  and  his  friends  engaged  with  great  ac- 
tivity in  the  contest,  in  support  of  Mr.  Van  Buren  ;  and 
the  White  electoral  ticket,  with  the  whole  whig  opposi- 
tion united  in  its  favor,  succeeded  by  but  about  nine 
thousand  majority. 

Shortly  after  the  August  election  in  1835.  Mr.  Polk 
visited  Nashville,  when  on  his  way  to  Rutherford  County. 
While  at  the  seat  of  government,  the  compliment  of  a 
public  dinner  was  tendered  to  him  by  the  republicans  of 
that  city  ;  but  he  was  forced  to  decline  the  proffered  invi- 
tation, on  account  of  the  poor  state  of  his  health.  In  his 
reply  to  the  letter  of  the  citizens,  which  expressed  their 
high  approbation  of  his  political  coursej  he  said :  "  Being 


IR-W^pl* 


-W»— w,- 


[1835. 

J  (lividing  the  ro 
ilil  devolve  on  the 
hntl  taken  no  part 
nomination  niudo 
lat  *'  as  a  citizen, 
liat  man  who  was 
blicans  of  the  na- 
elf,  if  the  election 
e  will  of  the  peo- 

verified.  Judge 
only  of  the  oppo- 
cnda  of  tlie  United 
V  instances  ho  ob- 
ithern  States,  who 
lie  to  carry  them, 
leneral  Harrison, 
he  State  of  Ten- 
ded with  great  ac- 

Van  Buren ;  and 
rhole  whig  opposi- 
y  but  about  nine 

I  1835.  Mr.  Polk 
utherford  County, 
compliment  of  a 
the  republicans  of 
the  proffered  invi- 
lis  health.  In  his 
h  expressed  their 
,  he  said :  "  Being 


1835. J 


DECLINES    A    PUBLIC    DINNER. 


93 


unwilling  to  do  any  act,  which  might  tend  to  break  up  or 
disturb  the  integrity  of  this  party — the  republican  party, 
to  which  we  belong — and  with  a  sincere  desire  to  avoid 
the  state  of  things  which  now  exists,  and  which  I  thouglit 
I  foresaw  was  likely  to  be  produced,  I  did  not  hesitate, 
during  the  past  Avinter,  to  assume  the  position  I  now  oc- 
cupy.    It  is  the  position  of  principle.     I  am  still  acting 
upon  my  old  principles,  nnd  with  a  vast  majority  of  my 
old  political  friends  ;  with  whom  I  do  now,  and  have  ever 
agreed  in  opinion.     I  have  not  changed  my  position,  or 
any  political  opinion,  upon  which  I  have  ever  acted.     [ 
have  compromised  no  principle,  nor  can  I  net  with  those 
who  have  broken  off  and  seceded  from  the  body  of  the  re- 
publican party,  and  assumed  a  position,  which  cannot 
operate  otherwise  (thougli  by  many  that  effect,  doubtless, 
is  not  intended)  than  in  aid  of  the  adversaries  of  our  prin- 
ciples ;  who,  being  in  a  minority,  are  '  willing  to  destroy 
the  landmarks  .of  republicanism  ;'  who  seek  to  efface  the 
lines  which  have  hitherto  separated  federalists  and  repub- 
licans, and  to  organize  upon  the  ruins  of  the  republican 
party,  by  an  umiatural  amalgamation  of  political  leaders 
of  discordant  principles  and  opinions,  a  new  party  called 
by  whatever  name,  whether  by  that  of  the  '  no-party' 
party,  or  any  other,  when  the  necessary  and  inevitable 
consequences  must  be  the  destruction  of  those  princi- 
ples we  hold  dear.     If  the  object  of  this  amalgamation 
and  new  organization  be,  as  is  sometimes  professed,  to 
put  an  end  to  the  existence  and  asperity  of  party,  it  can- 
not he  attained ;  for  of  what  avail  is  it,  to  break  up  and 
destroy  one  party — the  republican  party — nnd  erect  upon 
its  ruins 'another — the  'no-party'  party — which,  judging 


ft-jjLaj;u.jj.i,.,.,>..t_..jmini. 


!Tgt«>egr.'.".'T-'l.'.-.t?>.UM,i.9'.»". 


-  ■.iiuiwin«';r)niyiwi 


94 


JAMRS   KNOX   POLK. 


[18Sa  39. 


from  tlic  indicntions  'Vv'  liavc  seen,  from  some  of  the  lend 
era  of  this  new  J)«rty,  is  likoiy  to  be,  in  Teiines'-i'c  !it 
least,  more  intok-riiht  than  niiy  other  party  which  has 
ever  existe'l  amongst  us." 

The  friends  of  Judge  Wliito  did  not  yet  (h'spnir  of  sf- 
eiiring  tlii  influence  of  Mr.  Puilc  ;  and  in  the  month  of 
October  ho  received  an  invitation  to  attend  a  public  din- 
ner to  be  given  to  the  Judge  in  'Maury  county,  on  the 
20th  instant.  Tiu-  rt  r»lv  of  Mr.  Voile  to  the  committee 
was  briif  but  pertineiit.  "  I  have  this  moment,"  .«aid  l,e, 
*'  received  vour  note  of  invitation  to  dine  on  Tuestlay,  the 
9'Hh  inst.,  and  have  the  honor  to  decline  it."  Aftr'r  the 
liisnatch  of  this  missive,  he  was  honored  with  no  further 
att(  atif  ns  in  that  (lunrter.  His  constituents,  howev  r, 
looked  upon  tho  dinner  to  Judge  White  as  being  designed 
to  rebuke  hiai  for  his  course,  aiid  they  forthwith  made 
preparations  for  a  similar  demonstration  of  their  regard 
for  their  representative.  A  dinner  was  accordingly  given 
to  Mr.  Polk,  at  Mooresville,  on  the  22d  of  October,  Avhieii 
■was  far  more  numerously  attended  than  the  previous  af- 
fair in  honor  of  Judge  "White.  * 

When  the  members  of  the  twenty-fourth  Congre.<!s  as- 
sembled at  the  capitol  for  their  first  regular  session,  in 
December,  1835,  it  was  found  that  the  friends  of  the  iid- 
ininistration  were  largely  in  the  majority.  Mr.  Polk  was 
KOlected  by  general  consent  as  their  candidate  for  speaker, 
not  merely  as  an  act  of  justice  on  account  of  the  circum- 
stances under  which  he  was  defeated  the  previous  year, 
but  as  a  tribute  due  to  his  exalted  worth  and  talents,  and 
the  firmness  and  independence  he  had  exhibited  duruig 
the  recent  canvass  in  Tennessee.     Mr.  Bell  was  once 


MtiiHiiiiiii  iKiiirrifttfii'jwtBiiMMfarj 


some  of  the  U'lul- 
in  TetincMM'o  at 
party  wliieli  lias 

•I't  (Ipspiiir  of  Rf- 
in  tlie  iiioiitli  of 
end  a  public  diii- 
•y  county,  on  tlio 
to  tlie  committee 
iiomciit,"  said  l.o, 
.'  on  'I'upfiday,  tlio 
'  it."  AftrT  tlic 
1  with  no  furthi'i' 
ituentH,  howcvr, 
iiH  being  (Icsigiifd 
f  forthwith  made 
n  of  thoir  regard 
ftcc'ordingly  given 
af  October,  Avhieii 
the  previous  af- 

irth  Congre.'s.s  as- 
pguhir  session,  in 
Tiends  of  tiie  ad- 
r.  Mr.  Polk  wag 
idate  for  speaker, 
nt  of  the  circum- 
e  previous  year, 
and  talents,  and 
exhibited  duruig 
•.  Bell  was  once 


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h>l8i».,'ii 


1835-39. J   CIIAUACTER   AS   PRESIDING   OFFICER. 


95 


iiiore  tlie  opposing  candidate,  but  he  received  only  84 
votes,  while  132  were  given  for  Mr.  Polk.  At  the  first, 
or  extra  session  of  the  26th  Congress,  held  in  September, 
1^37,  the  same  camlidates  were  pitted  against  each  otlier 
— Mr.  Bell  beintr  at  that  time  thoroughly  identified  wllh 
!be  whig  opposition.  Parties  were  more  equully  dividid 
Jii  this  Ojiigress,  hut  Mr.  Polk  was  again  chosen  over  liis 
opponent  by  thirteen  majority. 

As  the  Speaker  of  the  24th  and  the  2oth  Congress,  Mr. 
Poik  occupied  li.u  e:.;  r  of  the  House  during  five  ses- 
Mohs.  h  was  his  fortune  to  fill  this  distinguished  posi- 
tion when  party  feelings  were  excited  to  an  unusual  de- 
gree. Duriug  the  first  session,  more  appeals  were  taken 
from  his  decisions,  than  were  ever  before  known  ;  but  he 
was  uniformly  sustained  by  the  House,  and  frequently  by 
the  uiu^t  prominent  members  of  the  opposition.  He  was 
courteous  and  affable  toward  all  who  approached  him, 
and  in  his  manner,  as  tlie  presiding  oflScer,  dignity  and 
urbanity  were  appropriately  blended.  In  the  appoint- 
ment of  committees,  in  awarding  the  floor,  and  in  his  de- 
cisions on  questions  of  parliamentary  law,  he  aimed  to  be 
strictly  impartial ;  and  if  ho  at  any  time  failed  in  this,  it 
WHS  because  he  could  not  entirely  divest  himself— and 
who  is  there  that  can — of  party  feelings  and  prejudices. 
Amid  the  stormy  scenes  that  attended  the  abolition  ex- 
citement in  Congress,  and  the  presentation  of  petitions 
counoctcd  in  one  shape  or  another  with  the  slavery  qucs- 
tiitn,  he  was  always  cool  and  collected,  and  never  dis- 
turbed from  the  calm  serenity  that  characterized  him. 
Totally  opposed  though  he  was  to  all  the  movements  of 
the  abolitionists,  he  yet  habitually  extended  to  their  lead- 


:•* 


96 


JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


[1835-39. 


er  on   the  floor   of  the  House,  John   Quincy   Adams, 
"  every  kindness  and  courtesy  imaginable."* 

Heinff  perfectly  familiar  >Nith  the  lex  parliamentana, 
he  Avas  ever  rrorapt  in  his  decisions.     Questions  of  order 
might  be  multiplied,  till  the  ^vhole  business  of  the  House 
«eemed  to  be  in  a  state  of  irretrievable  confusion  ;  but  he 
instantly  unravelled  the  knot  and  restored  order  and  har- 
u,ony.     Discord  and  strife  might  shake  the  pillars  of  the 
eapitol,  but  he   quailed  not  from  his  duty.     Whether 
frowns  or  smiles,  favor  or  dislike,  follo^ved  his  decisions, 
he  did  not  stop  to  inquire.  He  ^vould  not  swerve  a  single 
hair',  breadth  from  what  he  conceived  to  be  right ;  and 
this  he  did,  and  to  this  he  adhered,  regardtess  of  conse- 
quence.* personal  to  himself. 

At  the  close  of  ihe  24th  Congress,  in  March,  1837,  a 
unanimous  vote  of  thanks  to  the  Speaker  ^^•as  passed  by 
the  House.     The  sessions  of  the  ensuing  Congress  were 
remarkable  for  the  violence  and  asperity  that  signalized 
the   proceedings.     The  discussions  on   the  independent 
treasury,  and  other  topics  connected  with  the  prevad.ng 
panic   and  derangement  in  the  monetary  affairs  of  the 
country,  were    exceedingly  animated.      Mr.  Polk  was 
•often  called  upon  to  decide  what  were  regarded  as  painty 
questions  ;  and  though  the  same  uprightness  of  principle, 
honesty  of  intention,  and  conscientious  desire  not  to  for- 
get his  moral  responsibility,  influenced  his  conduct,  the 
opposition  members,  as  was  natural  in  their  excited  state 
of  feeling  which  continued  to  be  exhibited  up  to  the  very 
last  day  of  the  closing  session,  refused  to  unite  in  passing 

•  Reminiscences  of  John  Quincy  Adams,  by  an  Old  Colony  Man. 


[1835-39. 

Quincy   Adams, 

jlc."* 
parliamentarian 

Questions  of  order 

icss  of  the  House 

confusion ;  but  ho 

red  order  and  har- 

!  the  pillars  of  the 

duty.     Whether 

)wed  his  decisions, 

lot  swerve  a  single 

to  be  right ;  and 

gardfess  of  conse- 

in  March,  1837,  a 
ker  was  passed  by 
iin<''  Congress  were 
ity  that  signalized 
m   the  independent 
ivith  the  prevailing 
etary  affairs  of  the 
d.      Mr.  Polk  was 
3  regarded  as  party 
Thtness  of  principle, 
lis  desire  not  to  for- 
ced his  conduct,  the 
n  their  excited  state 
bited  up  to  the  very 
id  to  unite  in  passing 

'  an  Old  Colony  Man. 


1835-39.J 


VOTE    OF   THANKS. 


or 


the  customary  vote  of  thanks.  The  usual  resolution  was 
offered  by  an  administration  member,  which  produced  a 
warm  debate.  It  was  at  length  adopted  by  tiie  votes  of 
the  republican  members  ;  several  of  the  opposition  mem- 
bers also  concurred  in  it,  but  the  great  body  of  them 
either  voted  in  the  negative  or  remained  silent. 

Under  almost  any  other  circumstances  -this  resolution 
would  probably  have  been  passed  without  a  dissenting 
voice.     No  speaker  elected  as  the  candidate  of  a  political 
party  *ould  have  been  more  rigidly  impartial  than  was 
Mr.  Polk.     To  his  opponents,  doubtless,  it  sometimes 
seemed,  in  the  ardor  with  which  they  pursued  their  ef- 
forts to  render  the  administration  of  Mr.  Van  Buren  un- 
popular, and  to  defeat  its  measures,  that  he  was  inclined 
to  exert  his  power  unnecessarily  to  thwart  them,  and  that 
he  was  unduly  governed  by  party  feelings.     But  they 
were  mistnkcn  in  his  character.     He  was  a  party  man, 
but  not  a  bitter  or  vindictive  partisan.     If  his  political 
prejudices  even  led  him  into  an  unintentional  error,  what 
member  of  the  25th  Congress  belonging  to  the  opposition, 
could  say—"  Stand  aside,  for  I  am  holier  than  thou  !" 
Where  all  were  excited  to  an  extent  hitherto  unexam- 
pled, who  had  the  right  to  censure  his  fellow  1 

In  adjourning  the  House  on  the  4th  of  March,  1830, 
and  terminating  forever  his  connection  with  the  body,  of 
which  he  had  been  so  long  a  member,  Mr.  Polk  delivered 
a  farewell  address  of  more  than  ordinary  length,  bu: 
characterized  by  deep  feeling.  "  When  I  look  b'.CK  to 
the  period,"  said  he,  "  when  I  first  took  mv  scat  in  this 
House,  and  then  look  around  me  for  tlose  who  were  at 
that  time  my  associates  here,  I  find  but  few,  very  few, 


ut 


98 


JAMES   KNOX    POLK. 


[1839. 


rcraaining.     But  five  members  who  were  here  with  rao 
fourteen  years  ago,  eontinue  to  be  members  of  this  body. 
My  service  here  has  been  constant  and  hiborious.     I 
can  perhaps  say  what  but  few  otlicrs,  if  any,  can,  that  I 
have  not  failed  to  attend  the  daily  sittings  of  tliis  House 
a  single  day  since  I  have  been  a  member  of  it,  save  on 
a  single  occasion,  when  prevented  for  a  short  time  by  in- 
disposition.    In  my  intercourse  with  the  members  of 
this  body,  when  I  occupied  a  place  upon  the  floor,  though 
occasionally  engaged  in  debates  upon  interesting  public 
questions,  and  of  an  exciting  character,  it  is  a  source  of 
unmingled  gratification  to  roe  to  recur  to  the  tact,  that 
on  no  occasion  was  there  the  slightest  personal  or  un- 
pleasant collision  with  any  of  its  members.  Maintaining, 
and  at  all  times  expressing,  my  own  opinions  firmly,  the 
same  right  was  fully  conceded  to  others.   For  four  years 
past,  the  station  I  have  occupied,  and  a  sense  of  pro- 
priety, in  the  divided  and  unusually-exciting  state  of  pub- 
lie  opinion  and  feeling,  which  has  existed  both  in  this 
House  and  the  country.  Lave  precluded  me  from  partici- 
pating in  your  debates.    Other  duties  were  assigned  me. 
"  The  high  office  of  Speaker,  to  which  it  has  been 
twico  the  pleasure  of  the  House  to  elevate  me,  has  been 
at  all  tim:s  one  of  labor  and  high  responsibility.     It  has 
been  made  my  duty  to  decide  more  questions  of  parlia 
inentary  law  and  oider,  many  of  them  of  a  complex  and 
difficult  character,  ansi-o;  often  in  the  midst  of  high  ex- 
citement,  in  the  course  of  our   proceedings,  than  had 
been  decided,  it  is  believed,  by  all  my  predecessors,  from 
the  foundation  of  the  government.     This  House  has  uni- 
tormly  sustained  me,  without  distinction  of  the  political 


1 


I'll      J.iiijiliiit.wilill 


[1839. 

■0  here  with  mo 
3rs  of  this  body, 
d  laborious.  I 
finy,  can,  that  I 
;s  of  this  House 
p  of  it,  save  on 
lort  time  by  in- 
le  members  of 
lie  floor,  thoHjih 
;eresting  pubhc 
t  is  a  source  of 

0  the  tact,  that 
jersonal  or  un- 
.  Maintaining', 
ons  firmly,  the 
For  four  years 

1  sense  of  pro- 
ig  state  of  pub- 
i  both  in  tliis 
e  from  partici  - 
e  assigned  mc. 
h  it  has  been 
e  me,  has  been 
ibility.  It  has 
ions  of  parlia 
a  complex  and 
!st  of  high  ex- 
ngs,  than  had 
lecessors,  from 
louse  has  uni- 
)f  the  political 


1839.  J        speaker's  farewell  address.  99 

parties  of  which  it  has  been  composed.  I  return  them 
my  thanhs  for  their  constant  support  in  the  discharge  of 
the  duties  I  have  had  to  perform. 

"  But,  gentlemen,  my  acknowledgments  are  especially 
due  to  the  majority  of  this  House,  for  the  high  and 
flattering  evidence  they  have  given  me,  of  their  approba- 
tion of  my  conduct  as  the  presiding  officer  of  the  House, 
by  the  resolution  you  have  been  pleased  to  pass.     I  re- 
gard it  as  of  infinitely  more  value  than  if  it  had  been  the 
common    matter-of-course,    and  customary  resolution, 
which,  in  the  courtesy  usually  prevailing  between  the 
presiding  officer  and  the  mnmbers  of  any  deliberative 
assembly,  is  always  passed  at  the  close  of  their  deliber- 
ations.     I  regard  this  as  the  highest  and  most  valued 
testimonial  I  have  ever  received  from  this  House ;  be- 
cause I  know  that  the  circumstances  under  which  it  has 
passed,  have  made  it  matter  of  substance,  and  not  of 
mere  form.     I  shall  bear  it  in  grateful  remembrance  to 
the  latest  hour  of  my  life. 

"  I  trust  this  high  office  may  in  future  times  be  filled 
as  doubtless  it  will  be,  by  abler  men.     It  cannot,  I 
know,  be  fiUed  by  any  one  who  will  devote  himself  with 
more  zeal  and  untiring  industry  to  do  his  whole  duty 
than  I  have  done." 


It  J 


I 


CHAPTER  VI. 

Mr.  I'olk  suppoftcil  by  tlio  Dcmocrntic  Party  in  Teniiossco  as  their  Candi. 
(l:it()  lor  (iovcnior— Tlic  Canvus.^— His  lOlcetiou— Inaugural  Aililrcsa — 
lOxceutivo    l?eeommcnda!!(ins — His    Adiniiiislratiun — A    Candidate    for 
Kculection — Defeat— State  Politics.  .  '. 

Still  higher  honors  awaited  Mr.  Polk.  His  long  anil 
arduous  service  in  the  national  representation,  and  more 
especially  the  circunj.sttinces  attending  the  presidential 
canvass  of  183G,  had  I'aiiiiliarized  the  people  of  'J'enne.«SL'e 
with  his  name  and  character.  To  the  republican  party 
he  was  endeared  by  his  sacrifices  in  their  behalf,  by  his 
devotion  to  their  intere;<ts,  tind  his  steadfast  maintenance 
of  their  pnnciples.  They  had  marked,  with  pride  and 
exultation,  his  manly  bearing  in  the  political  contests 
through  which  they  had  passed ;  they  had  seen  him  dis- 
play the  gallantry  of  Hotspur  with  the  prudent  caution 
and  wisdom  of  Worcester ;  they  had  witnesse(^  the  unsuc- 
cessful efforts  which  had  been  made  to  prostrate  him  as  ti 
public  man ;  and  they  had  rejoiced  over  his  repeated 
triumphs,  when  so  many  adverse  influences  were  arrayed 
against  him. 

Greatness  is  frequently  the  result  of  mere  accident ; 
and  fame,  like  the  ignis  fatuus,  often  shines  the  most 
brightly  over  the  dead  man's  grave.  Popular  favor  is 
sometimes  hard  to  win,  and  then  again  it  is  easily  ac- 
quired, but,  it  may  be  as.easiiy  lost.     The  career  of  a 


1 


1839.J 


GUnERNATORIAI.    CANVASS 


101 


03SC0  as  their  Candi-* 
Iimiigural  AiWress — 
n — A    CaudiJiitc   for 


c.  His  loTig  and 
tation,  aii'l  more 

tlic  presidential 
pie  of  'J'ennessee 
republican  party 
ir  behalf,  by  bis 
fast  maintenance 
,  with  pride  and 
)olitical  contests 
ad  seen  him  dis- 

prudent  caution 
iessc(^  the  unsuc- 
rostratc  him  as  ii 
rev  his  repeated 
jes  were  arrayed 

'  mere  accident ; 
shines  the  most 
Popular  favor  is 
I  it  is  easily  ac- 
The  career  of  a 


politicirn  resembles  the  summer  landscape  above  which 
the  lleecy  clouds  are  constantly  Hitting — now  in  the  light, 
and  now  in  the  shade — here  all  sunshine  and  brightness, 
and  tliere  all  darkness  and  gloom.  Tiie  gratification  of 
human  hopes  is  always  uncertain,  and  aspirations  after 
public  honors  arc  not  exempt  from  the  disappointments 
incident  to  mortal  desires.  JJut  this  should  not  deter 
true  merit  from  treading  tlie  path  of  honorable  ambition. 
Accidental  distinctions  are  rarely  worth  striving  for  ;  but 
the  lasting  esteem  of  a  free  people  is  a  patent  of  nobility 
prouder  than  was  ever  granted  by  kingly  favor,  and  is 

"  stninpcd  with  a  seal, 
Far,  far  more  eiindljling,  than  iiioiiaroh  e'er  Bot." 

At  the  earnest  request,  and  upon  the  urgent  solicita- 
tions of  his  iViends,  repeatedly  pressed  upon  him,  Mr. 
Polk  consented  to  become  the  candidate  of  the  republicans 
of  Tennessee,  at  the  August  election  in  1831),  for  the 
olficc  of  governor.  It  was  very  evident  that  none  but  the 
strongest  man  in  the  party  could  enter  into  the  canvass 
with  anything  like  a  fair  prospect  before  Iiim  ;  and  it  was 
exceedingly  (loubtful  wliether  he  could  bo  successful. 
The  democracy  of  the  state  were  in  a,  measv  -'isheart- 
ened  by  the  disasters  and  defeats  which  the^  l,vi  expe- 
rienced since  the  secession  of  Judge  White,  Mr.  Bell, 
and  tlieir  friends,  from  the  party ;  and  they  needed  some 
leader  possessiiig  a  powerful  hold  upon  their  affections, 
of  popular  maimers  and  an  able  speaker,  to  place  himself 
at  their  head,  to  encourage  tliera  by  his  example,  and  to 
animate  them  by  Iiis  stirring  elo(|uencc. 

Such  a  leader  was  Mr.  Polk.     He  cheerfully  accepted 


w„ 


'^g?!:m^ 


m 


102 


JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


[1830. 


tlio  nomination,  which  was  tendered  to  him  hy  the  imani- 
nious  consent  of  his  republican  friends,  in  tlie  fall  of 
1838,  and  at  a  barhccuc  in  Murfrocsborough  iniblicly  do- 
clared  himself  a  candidate.  He  immediately  took  the 
stump,  but  was  only  able  to  make  a  few  speeches  that 
iall,  as  it  was  necessary  for  him  to  repair  to  Washington 
in  time  for  the  opening  of  the  session  of  Congress. 

At  the  close  of  the  session,  in  the  spring  of  1830,  ho 
hastened  home  without  delay,  and  his  familiar  voice  was 
soon  heard  uttering  its  thrilling  appeals,  that  aroused  the 
feelings,  and  moved  the  hearts,  of  those  who  listene.l  to 
him,  like  the  notes  of  a  trumpet  on  the  eve  of  an  impend- 
ing battje.  The  energies  of  the  party  were  forthwith 
revived  ;  unity  and  harmony  everywhere  prevailed  ;  and 
a  new  spirit  seemed  to  dwell  in  the  bosoms  of  those  who 
had  been  languid  and  faint-hearted,  and  had  already 
predicted  defeat. 

The  canvass  was  warm  and  spirited.     The  state  had 
for  years  been  in  the  hands  of  the  opposition,  and  they 
now  rallied  with  enthusiasm  and  alacrity  in  support  of 
Governor  Cannon,  the  incumbent  of  the  oifice,  who  was 
a  candidate  for  reelection.     The  governor  was  a  man  of 
great  popularity,  well  and  widely  known,  and  justly  es- 
teemed for  his  high  character  and  talents.     He  appeared 
on  the  stump  in  person,  and  a  number  of  the  ablest  whig 
speakers  in  the  state  labored  for  weeks  in  his  support. 
Mr.  Polk  was  favored  by  no  factitious  circumstances. 
On  the  contrary,  everything  was  against  him,  and  the 
issue  of  the  contest,  as  was  proved  by  the  result,  depcnd- 
vd  mainly  on  himself.     As  a  stump  speaker  he  was  in- 
vincible ;  and  his  abilities  in  this  respect  were  now  put  to 


[1839. 

in  liy  till'  uiiiuii- 
iii   tlu'    fall   of 
iigli  imblicly  du- 
liatcly  took  tlio 
w  sju'Oclu'M  tlmt 
r  to  Washington 
Congress, 
ring  of  1H;50,  ho 
iniiliar  voice  was 
that  aroused  tlio 
L!  wlio  listened  to 
ve  of  an  inipend- 
vvere  forthwith 
L>  prevailed  ;  and 
ims  of  tlioso  who 
md  had  already 

The  state  liad 
losltion,  and  they 
ty  in  support  of 
e  office,  who  was 
nor  was  a  man  of 
m,  and  justly  cs- 
ts.  He  appeared 
)f  the  ablest  Avhig 
s  in  his  support, 
us  circumstances, 
nst  him,  and  the 
;he  result,  depcnd- 
icakcr  he  was  in- 
ct  wore  now  put  to 


18.30.J 


THK    CANVASS. 


103 


a  severe  test.     Never  did  his  aptness,  hkfacilitd  in  ad- 
dres.snig  p..pular  assemblies,  appear  to  greater  advanta-c., 
or  serve  liin.  in  greater  stead.     He  had  reached  the  turn- 
Jug  ponit  of  his  fortunes— the  crisis  of  his  career.     Jf 
defeaUMl  on  this  occasion  it  might  bo  impossible  to  main- 
tain lumself  in  the  position  he  had  previously  occupied, 
hut  if  successful,  yet  higher  distinctions  might  be  attain- 
ed.    'I'he  prize  seemed  to  be  worthy  of  his  utmost  efibrts. 
lie  Hew,  as  it  Were,  from   one  end  of  the  state   to  the 
other.     II,.  visif'd  every  county  and  addressed  its   citi- 
;'.-'»f  •     I  le  scarcely  jravo  himself  time  to  eat  or  to  sleep, 
hut,  entirely  indillerent   to  fatigue,  continued  his  efforts, 
without  pause  or  relaxation,  up  to  the  last  hour'  of   the 
ciiiivass. 

Animated  as  was  the  contest,  nothing  like  personal  ill- 
leolmg  was  manife.sted  by  either  of  the  rival  candidates. 
Governor  Cannon,  however,  was  afraid  to  meet  Mr.  Polk 
■"1  the  stump.  The  latter  made  out  a  list  of  appointments 
m  West  Tennessee,  and  invited  his  opponent  to  accom- 
pany him.     The  invitation  was  declined  by  Governor 
Camion  ;  whereupon  Mr.  Polk  set  out  to  fill  his  appoint- 
ments, but  when  he  had  rej^ched  the  extreme  western 
hmits  of  the  state,  he  was  informed  that  Governor  Can- 
non had  left  for  East  Tennessee,  in  order  to  fill  some  ap- 
pointments which  he  had  made  there.  Mr.  Polk  instantly 
suspended  his  own  unfilled  appointments,  and  travelled 
with  the  utmost  speed  to  Knoxville,  which  place  he  reach- 
ed without  having  slept  in  a  bed,  or  pulled  off  his  boots 
during  the  journey.     He  then  met  Governor  Cannon,' 
and,  as  was  claimed  by  his  friends,  defeated  him  on 
every  occasion.     That  the  people  coincided  in  this  opin- 


104 


JAMES   KNOX   POI-K. 


[1839. 


ion,  was  evinced  by  tlioir  expros,«ioiis  of  praise  and  ap- 
probation, and  by  tlieir  votes  at  tlic  polls. 

Tlio  exertions  oF  Mr.  Polk  .luring  this  canvass  de- 
served tho  success  with  whieh  they  were  rewarded.  He 
was  elected  over  Governor  Cannon  by  upwards  of  twenty- 
fivo  hundred  majority,  and  on  the  14tl»  of  October  took 
the  oath  of  oflicc  at  Nashville,  and  entered  upon  the  dis- 
charge of  the  executive  duties.  On  this  occasion,  he  de- 
livered the  following  address,  which  is  with  justice  con- 
sidered to  bo  one  of  the  clearest  and  ablest  docninents 
that  ever  came  from  his  pen,  in  tlie  presence  of  the  Gen- 
eral Assembly  and  a  large  concourse  of  citizens  : 


noVKUNOKS    AlJllIti;83. 

Gentlemen  of  the  Henate.  of  tlio  Honsc  of  Ui'lire^iontativog, 
and  I'lllow-Citi/.ciH; 

Deeply  impressed  with  a  sense  of  uratitudc  to  my  fellow- 
citizens  for  the  eoiilideiioe  they  liave  rejinsed  in  me  by  elevat- 
ing mc  to  the  Cliief  llxe.-utive  Ollk'e  in  the  State,  and  duly 
sensible  of  the  wei-lit,  of  lespoiisiljilily  which  will  devolve 
upon  me,  I  enter  ujion  tlie  diseliarge  of  its  duties  tirmly  rely- 
ing upon  the  coi.penition  of  tlie  eoi.idinate  departments  of 
the  State  Government,  in  all  ^uch  measures  of  public  policy 
as  may  be  calculated  to  maintain  the  high  charnctcr  of  the 
State,  and  to  advance-  and  prom  ite  tlie  interests,  the  happi- 
ness, and  prosperity  of  the  people. 

A  proper  respect  for  public  opinion,  as  well  as  a  compliance 
with  public  expectation,  seem  to  recpiire  that  I  should  upon 
this  occasion  publicly  declare  tlie  leading  principles  which  I 
shall  deem  it  proper  to  be  observed  in  the  conduct  of  the 
State  Administration,  so  far  as  the  action  of  the  Executive 
branch  may  be  concerned. 

ynder  our  happy  system  of  Government,  the  ultimate  and 


fl839. 
pniisc  and  ap- 
his   ClVtlVJlHH    llc- 

rewanletl.  lie 
yards  of  twenty- 
jf  October  took 
L'd  upon  till'  tlis- 
occasion,  ho  dc- 
rtitli  justice  coii- 
bli'st  docnincnts 
once  of  the  Gen- 
citizens  : 


itireii, 

lude  to  my  fellow- 
d  in  me  by  clcvat- 
10  State,  and  duly 
diich  will  devolve 
duties  tirmly  rely- 
le  departments  of 
es  of  public  policy 
h  character  of  the 
iterests,  the  happi- 

fcU  as  a  compliance 
that  I  should  upon 
principles  which  I 
tlie  conduct  of  the 
1  of  the  Executive 

at,  the  ultimate  and 


Uw»M 


i 


1889.J 


fJOVKUNOK  8    AUDHESS. 


105 


suprcnx'  soveri'iLjnty  rc^^ts  in  the  p('()|)l,«.  The  powers  of  gov- 
cniincnt  dcle^'ati'd  liy  I  hi-  people  to  their  puhli(!  I'unclionaries, 
are  by  our  constitution  divided  heiweeri  the  Kederal  and 
N(.U(!  authorities.  The  State  (iovcrnments  are  not,  !is  liiis 
been  erroneously  supposed  i)y  some,  sidjordilKlte  to  tile  I'Vd- 
eiul  (iovernment.  "  They  are  coilrdiiiato  departments  of  one 
simple  iiiid  inte(,'nil  whole."  Th(^  States  hiive  piu-ted  with 
eertiiin  .'numerated  and  sjx'cified  powers,  and,  by  the  Consli- 
tutinii  (.1'  the  United  States,  these  are  deleLjated  to  the  Fed- 
end  (iovernment,  and  e;in  only  be  ri;,qilfully  e.vercised  by 
that  ( iovernment.  "  The  powers  not  delegated  to  the  United 
Slates  by  tht*  Constitution,  nor  rrohihited  hy  it  to  the  States, 
Jire  reserved  to  tlie  States  resjieetively,  or  to  the  people." 
li '  the  partition  of  powers  thus  (hstinctly  defined,  it  is  mani- 
leh*  that  each  i;'o\ eminent  possesses  powers  wiiich  are  Avith- 
lield  from  the  other.  And  so  long  as  each  acts  within  its 
legitimate  and  projier  spliere,  tlie  system  works  harmoniously, 
and  aifords  to  the  citizen  a  greater  amount  of  securitv  for  life, 
liberty  and  property,  and  in*  the  pursuit  of  happiness,  than 
is  to  bo  found  under  any  otlier  government  whieh  has  ever 
existed.  When  either  overleaps  tlie  true  boundary  j)resi!ribed 
for  its  action,  and  usurps  the  cK^rcisc  of  powers  properly  be- 
longing to  the  other,  the  harmony  of  th-'  system  is  disturbed, 
and  agitating  collisions  arise  which  ar(«  calculated  to  weaktui 
the  bonds  of  union.  Whilst,  therefore,  the  Stales  -liould  be 
jealous  of  every  encroachment  of  the  Federal  Government  on 
///('//•  rights,  they  should  be  careful  to  confine  themselves  in 
their  own  action  to  the  e.xercise  of  powers  clearly  reserved  to 
them. 

It  will,  I  do  not  doubt,  be  the  patriotic  desire  of  my  con- 
stituents, as  I  know  it  will  be  mine,  in  the  discharge  of  the 
functions  to  which  lam  called,  that  "the  support  of  the 
State  Governments  in  all  their  rights,  as  the  most  competent 
administrations  for  our  domestic  concerns,  and  the  surest  bul- 
wark against  anti-republican  tendencies,"  and  that  the  "  pres- 


106 


JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


[isao. 


crvation  of  tlie  General  Government,  in  its  whole  constitu- 
tional vigor,  as  the  sheet-anchor  of  our  peace  at  home,  and 
safety  abroad,"  shall  be  scrupulously  observed  and  mviohibly 

maintained. 

In  ascertaining  the  true  line  of  separation  between  the 
powers  of  the  General  Government  and  of  the  States,  much 
difficulty  has  often  been  experienced  in  the  operations  of  our 
system.     The  powers  delegated  to  the  General  Government 
are  either  express  or  i-nplied.     The  general  rule  of  construc- 
tion laid  down  by  the  General  Assembly  of  Virgmui  m  1799, 
may  be  regarded  as  a  sound  one  by  which  to  determine 
whether  a  given  power  has  been  delegated  to  that  Govern- 
ment, or  is  reserved  to  the  States.    That  rule  is— "-When- 
ever a  question  arises  concerning  the  constitutionahty  of  a 
particular  power,  the  first  question  is,  whether  the  po«  .t  be 
expi-emd  in  the  constitution.     If  it  be,  the  question  is  decided. 
If  it  be  not  expressed,  the  next  question  must  be,  whether  it 
is  properly  an  incident  to  an  expressed  power,  and  wccssary 
to  its  execution.     If  it  be,  it  may  be  exercised  by  Congress. 
If  it  be  not,  Congress  cannot  exercise  it."     If  the  power  be 
not  expressed,  it  is  not  enough  that  it  may  be  convmxent  or 
expedient  to  exercise  it,  for  such  a  construction  of  the  Consti- 
tution of  the  United  States  would  refer  its  exercise  to  the 
unlimited  and  unrestrained  discretion  of  Congress— to  deter- 
mine what  would  be  convenient  or  expedient;  thereby  making 
the  exercise  of  important  powers,  by  the  General  Govern- 
ment, to  depend  upon  the  varying  discretion  of  successive 
Congresses.    It  must  be  a  "necessary  and  proper    power 
It  must  be  m  incident  to  an  express  power,  "  necessary  and 
proper"  to  carry  that  express  power  into  effect,  and,  without 
which,  it  could  not  be  exercised,  and  would  be  nugatory. 

Mr  Jefferson,  whose  sound  expositions  of  the  relative 
powers  of  the  Federal  and  State  Governments  but  few  of  my 
constituents  will  be  prepared  at  this  day  to  question,  near 
the  close  of  a  long  and  eventful  Ufe  of  pubUc  usefuhiess,  de- 


[18»9. 


1839.J 


governor's  address. 


107 


1  whole  constitu- 
iace  at  home,  and 
red  and  invioliibly 

tion  between  the 
the  States,  much 
1  operations  of  our 
neral  Government 
1  rule  of  construe - 
f  Virginia  in  1799, 
liich  to  determine 
d  to  that  Govern- 

rule  is — "-When- 
nstitutionality  of  a 
ther  the  power  he 
question  is  decided, 
lust  be,  whether  it 
awer,  and  neccssanj 
cised  by  Congress. 
*  If  the  power  be 
ay  be  convenient  or 
ction  of  the  Consti- 

its  exercise  to  the 
]!ongress — to  deter- 
i<;  thereby  making 
le  General  Govern- 
retion  of  successive 
md  f/roper  "  power, 
wer,  "  necessary  and 

effect,  and,  without 
iild  be  nugatory, 
ions  of  the  relative 
ments  but  few  of  my 
ay  to  question,  near 
)ublic  usefulness,  de- 


clared "  to  be  most  false  and  unfounded,  the  doctrine  that 
the  compact,  in  authorizing  its  federal  branch  to  lay  and  col- 
lect taxes,  duties,  imposts,  and  exvjises,  U>  jjuy  the  "dehls  and 
provide  for  the  common  defence  and  gc'iiera'l  welian;  of  the 
[Inited  States,  has  given  tlieni  tlierel)-,-  a  power  to  do  what- 
ever t/i<!/  may  think,  ov  jiretend,  would  promote  thi;  Veneral 
weh'are,  which  construction  would  livd;,'  thai,  of  itself,  a  eoin- 
])lete  government,  without  liniilaliou  of  jiowers  ;  but,  that  (he 
l)lain  t<euse  and  obvious  meaning  were,  iliat  tiiey  might  levy 
tlie  taxes  necessary  to  ])ro\idr  for  ihe  general  welfare,  by  the 
various  acts  of  power  therein  specilied  and  delegated  to 
them,  and  by  no  otiiors." 

In  all  cases  of  well-founded  coaslitutioual  doubt,  it  is  safest 
ami  wisest  for  all  the  fuiietioiiaries  of  government,  both  State 
and  Federal,  to  abstain  from  the  exercise  of  the  doubtful 
power.  In  all  such  cases,  it  is  both  safest  and  wisest  to  ap- 
peal to  the  people,  tlie  only  true  source  of  power  in  tlie  con- 
stitutional forms,  by  an  amendment  of  tlie  fundamental  law, 
to  remove  such  d  lubt,  either  by  an  enlai'gement  or  a  restric- 
tion of  the  do-iotful  power  in  question. 

T)ie  Federal  Government  has  at  different  times  assumed, 
or  attempted  to  exercise  powers,  which,  in  my  judgment, 
liave  not  been  conferred  upon  that  government  by  tlie  com- 
pact. Among  these,  1  am  free  to  declare  my  solemn  convic- 
tion that  the  Federal  Government  possesses  no  constitutional 
power  to  incorporate  a  National  Bank.  The  advocates  of  a 
bank  insist  tiiat  i.  would  be  convenient  and  er^mlknt,  and  that 
it  would  promote  tiie  "  general  welfare ;"  but  they  liave,  in 
»\V  judgment,  failed  to  show  that  the  power  to  create  it  is 
cither  expressly  granted,  or  that  it  is  an  incident  to  any  express 
power,  that  is  "necessary  and  proper"  to  carrj'  that  power 
into  effect.  The  alarming  dangers  of  the  power  of  such  a 
corporation  (vast  and  irresponsible  as  experience  has  shown 
it  to  be)  to  tiie  public  liberty,  it  does  not  fall  witiiin  the  scope 
of  my  present  purpose  fully  to  examine.     We  have  seen  the 


108 


JAMES   KNOX    POLK. 


[1839. 


power  of  associated  wealth  in  the  late  Bank  of  the  United 
States,  wrestling  with  a  giant's  strength  with  the  Govern- 
ment itself— and  although  finally  overthrown,  it  was  not  until 
after  a  long  and  doubtful  contest.  During  the  struggle,  it 
manifested  a  power  for  miscluef  which  it  would  be  danger- 
ous to  permit  to  exist  in  a  free  country.  Th(!  panic  and 
alarm,  tlie  distress  and  cxtensivt^  suffering,  which  in  its  con- 
vulsive struggle  to  perpetuate  its  power  it  inflicted  on  the 
country,  will  not  soon  be  forgotten,  its  notorious  alliance 
witli  leading  politicians,  and  its  open  interference  by  means 
of  the  corrupting  power  of  money  in  tlie  political  contests  of 
the  times,  had  converted  it  into  a  political  engine,  used  to 
control  elections  and  the  course  of  pubhc  affairs.  No  re- 
straints of  law  could  prevent  any  similar  institution  from  be- 
ing the  willing  instrument  used  for  similar  purposes.  Tlie 
State  of  Tennessee,  througli  her  Legislature,  lias  repeatedly 
declared  her  settled  opinions  against  the  existence  of  such  an 
institution,  and  at  no  time  in  its  favor.  She  has  instructed 
her  Senators,  and  reiiuested  her  Representatives  in  Congress 
to  vote  against  the  establishment  of  such  an  institution.  In 
these  opinions,  heretofore  expressed  by  the  State,  I  enthely 
concur. 

Of  the  same  character  is  the  power  which  at  some  time  has 
been  attempted  to  be  exercised  by  the  Federal  Government, 
of  first  c'liU'cting  by  taxation  on  the  people  a  surplus  revenue 
beyond  the  wants  of  that  Government,  and  then  distributing 
Buch  surplus,  in  the  shape  of  donations,  among  the  States :  a 
power  which  has. not  been  conferred  on  that  Government  by 
any  express  grant,  nor  is  it  an  incident  to  any  express  power, 
"  necessary  and  proper"  for  its  execution.  To  concede  such 
a  power,  would  be  to  make  the  Federal  Government  the  tax- 
gatherer  of  the  States,  and  accustom  them  to  look  to  that 
source  from  which  to  supply  the  State  Treasuries,  and  to  de- 
fray the  expenses  of  the  State  Governments.  It  is  clear  that 
this  constituted  no  one  of  the  objects  of  the  creation  of  the 


■gce;,a"r---"!iL<i'Jg.'y.'  ■ 


iStt,*— 


[1839. 


1839.J 


GOVERNOR  9    MESSAGE. 


109 


lit  of  the  United 
I'ith  the  Govern- 
ti,  it  was  not  until 
T  the  strugifk',  it 
voukl  be  dangcr- 

The  panic  and 
which  in  its  con- 
t  inflicted  on  tlie 
aotorious  alliance 
ference  by  means 
ilitical  contests  of 
1  engine,  used  to 

aifairs.  No  re- 
stitution from  be- 
V  purposes.  Tlie 
e,  lias  repeatedly 
istence  of  such  an 
)he  has  instructed 
iitivcs  in  Congress 
m  institution.  Tn 
J  State,  I  entirely 

I  at  some  time  has 

leral  Government, 

a  surplus  revenue 

then  distributing 

long  the  States :  a 

at  Government  by 

ny  express  power, 

To  concede  such 

)vernment  the  tax- 

n  to  look  to  that 

asuries,  and  to  de- 

s.     It  is  clear  that 

le  creation  of  the 


Federal  Government  ;  and  to  permit  its  exercise  would  be  to 
reduce  the  States  to  the  degraded  condition  of  subordinate 
dependencies  upon  that  (lovernment,  to  destroy  their  separ- 
ate and  independent  sovereignty,  and  to  make  the  Govern- 
ment of  the  Union  in  effect  a  consolidation.  Tlie  power  to 
make  provision  for  tlie  support  of  its  own  (iovernment,  bv 
the  levy  of  the  necessary  taxes  upon  its  own  citizens,  and  the 
adoption  of  such  measui'es  of  policy  for  its  internal  (lovern- 
nieiit  not  inconsislrnt  with  thi;  Federal  Constitution,  as  may 
be  leenied  proper  and  exj)edient,  "  remains  to  each  State 
among  its  domestic  and  unalienated  powers  exercisable  Avithin 
itself  and  by  its  doniestio  auth(jrities  alone." 

A  surplus  Federal  revenue,  raised  by  means  of  a  tariff  of 
duties,  must  necessarily  be  collected  in  un(^(iual  projiortions 
from  tlu!  people  of  the  respective  States.  The  planting  and 
jiroducing  States  must  bear  the  larger  portion  of  the  burden. 
It  was  this  inecpiality  which  has  heretofore  given  rise  to  the  just 
complaints  (jf  thesf;  States,  as  also  of  the  commercial  interests, 
against  tlu^  operations  of  a  high  and  ])rotectiv(?  tarill".  If  the 
proceeds  of  the  sales  of  tlic  public  lands  be  set  apart  for  dis- 
tribution among  the  States,  as  has  been  sometimes  proj)osed, 
the  operation  and  ell'ect  would  he  tlie  same  ;  for,  by  abstract- 
ing from  the  Federal  'rreasury  the  proceeds  of  the  sales  of 
the  public  lands,  a  necessity  is  thereby  created  for  an  in- 
creased Tariff  to  the  amount  thus  abstracted.  To  collect  u 
suiplus  revenue  by  unecjual  ta.\ation,  and  then  to  return  to 
the  people,  by  a  distribution  among  the  States,  their  own 
money,  in  sums  diminished  by  the  amount  of  the  cost  of  col- 
lection and  distribution,  aside  from  its  manifest  injustice,  is  a 
power  which  it  could  never  have  been  intended  to  confer  on 
the  I'ederal  Government. 

When,  from  the  unf(jreseen  o])cration  of  the  revenue  laws 
of  the  I'nited  Slates,  a  surplus  at  any  time  exists  or  is  likely 
to  exist  in  the  Federal  Tieasurj',  the  true  remedy  is,  to  re- 
duce or  to  repeal  the  taxes  so  as  to  collect  no  more  money 


110 


JAMES  KNOX  POLK. 


[1839. 


llifin  shall  bo  absolutely  necessary  for  the  economical  wants 
of  that  (Jovi'rnnuMil,  and  thus  leave  what  would  otherwise 
be  surplus  uncollected  in  the  pockets  of  the  ])eople.  The  act 
of  Congress  of  1830,  by  which  a  large  amount  of  the  surplus 
on  hand  was  distributed  among  the  States,  is  upon  its  face  a 
deposit  and  not  a  donation  of  tiie  sums  distributed.  Tiie 
States  have  become  the  debtors  to  the  Federal  (Jovernment 
for  their  respective  proportions,  and  are  subject  to  be  called 
upon  to  refund  it.  H  id  the  act  provided  for  an  absolute  do- 
nation  to  the  States,  so  palpable  an  infraction  of  the  Consti- 
tution it  is  scarcely  possible  to  conceive  cmild  have  been 
sanctioned.  15y  making  it  assume  tins  form  of  a  mere  dcjiosit 
of  the  money  of  the  United  States  in  the  State  Treasuries  for 
safe-keeping  until  needed  for  public  purposes,  it  became  the 
law.  Though  it  may  not  be  probable  that  the  sums  distrib- 
uted on  deposit  will  be  called  for  at  an  early  period,  if  indeed 
they  will  ever  be,  luiless  in  cases  of  exigencies  growing  out  of 
a  foreign  war,  yet  the  States  should  be  at  all  times  prepared 
to  meet  the  call  when  made  ;  and  it  will  be  unsafe  for  then\ 
to  rely  upon  the  sums  they  have  recefved  as  a  permanent 
fund.  They  should  rather  look  to  their  own  credit  and  re- 
sources in  the  accomplishment  of  their  purposes. 

It  becomes  the  duty  of  all  the  States,  and  especially  of 
those  whose  constitutions  recognize  the  existence  of  domestic 
slavery,  to  look  with  watchfulness  to  the  attempts  which 
have  been  recently  made  to  disturb  the_  rights  secured  to 
them  by  the  Constitution  of  the  United  States.  The 
agitation  of  the  abolitionists  can  by  no  possibility  pro- 
duce good  to  any  portion  of  the  Union,  and  must,  if  per- 
sisted in,  lead  to  incalculable  mischief.  The  institution 
of  domestic  slavery,  as  it  existed  at  the  adoption  of  the 
Constitution  of  the  United  States,  and  as  it  still  exists  in 
some  of  the  States,  formed  the  subject  of  one  of  the  compro- 
mises of  opinion  and  of  interest  upon  the  settlement  of  which 
all  tlie  old  States  became  parties  to  the  compact  and  agreed 


[1839. 

ecoiiomic'iil  -vviints 
would  otliiTwise 
|)Oi)j)li'.  The  iict 
lint  of  the  Rurphis 
is  upua  its  face  a 
ilistrihuted.  Tiic 
leriil  (iovernment 
bjoct  to  he  called 
jr  an  absolute  (lo- 
an of  the  Const  i- 
could  have  been 
of  a  mere  dqionit 
tute  Treasuries  fur 
ses,  it  became  tlie 
,  the  sums  distrib- 
y  period,  if  indeed 
ics  growing  out  of 
all  times  prepared 
e  unsafe  for  then\ 
i  as  a  permanent 
iwn  credit  and  re- 
poses. 

and  especially  of 
stencc  of  domestic 
c  attempts  which 
rights  secured  to 
ed  States.  The 
)  possibility  pro- 
and  must,  if  per- 
The  institution 
B  adoption  of  tlio 
s  it  still  exists  in 
one  of  the  com  pro - 
lettlement  of  which 
Dmpact  and  agreed 


18.39.J 


governor's  addrkss. 


Ill 


to  enter  the  Union.  The  new  States  were  admitted  into  tlic 
I'nion  up(^n  an  ecjual  footing  with  the  old  States,  and  are 
equally  bound  by  the  terms  of  the  compact.  Any  attempt 
on  the  part  of  the  Fiideral  Government  to  act  upon  tlie  sub- 
ject of  slavery,  as  it  exists  within  the  States,  would  he  a 
clear  infraction  of  the  Constitution  ;  and  to  disturb  it  within 
the  District  of  Columbia,  would  be  a  palpable  violation  <,f 
the  publi,;  faith,  as  well  as  of  the  clear  meaning  and  obvious 
intention  of  the  framers  of  th(!  Constitution.  They  intended 
to  leav<',  and  they  did  in  fact  leave,  the  subject  to  the  exclu- 
sive regulatio«  and  action  of  the  States  and  Territories  within 
which  slavery  existed  or  might  exist.  They  infetided  to 
rilacr,  and  they  did  in  fact  place  it,  beyond  the  pale  of  action 
within  the  constitutional  power  of  the  Federal  Government. 
Xo  power  has  been  confen-ed  ujioii  the  iMxleral  Government, 
either  by  express  grant  or  necessary  implication,  to  take  cog- 
nizance of,  or  in  any  manner  or  to  any  extent  to  interfere 
with,  or  to  act  upon  the  subject  of  domestic  slavery,  the  ex- 
i>tence  of  which  in  many  of  the  States  is  expressly  recog- 
nized by  tlie  Constitufion  of  the  United  Stales. 

Whether  t'.i.!  agitation  we  have  recently  witnessinl  upon 
this  delicate  and  disturbing  subject  has  proceeded  from  a 
niislaken  ])hilanthropy,  as  may  have  I)een  the  case  with  a 
few  misguided  jx-rsons  ;  or  whether  there  is,  I  regret  to  sav, 
but  too  much  reason  to  fear,  from  a  desire  on  the  part  of 
man}-  jjcrsons,  whu  manifest  by  their  conduct  a  reckless  di-- 
legurd  of  the  harmony  of  the  Union  and  of  the  public  good, 
to  convert  it  into  a  political  engine,  with  a  view  to  control 
elections,  its  jirog-ress  should  be  firmly  resi.sted  by  all  the 
coiistiiutional  nv'aiis  within  the  power  of  the  State.  The 
most  ca.'ial  obs..|-vt.r  of  ptissing  events  cannot  fail  to  liave 
seen  tha;  niodein  Al)(,|ili(,iiism,  with  rare  and  few  exceptions 
among  its  advocates,  has  becom/',  to  a  great  extent,  purely  a 
jiolitical  (}uestion.  'I'l.at  many  of  the  leading  abolitionists  are 
active  political  partisans,  fully  identified  with,  and  constitutin'^ 


1 


m: 


112 


JAMES    KNOX   POLK. 


[1839. 


no  inconsiacniblc  part  of,  one  of  the  political  parties  o    the 
country,  can  no  long.T  admit  of  doubt.     They  address  them- 
selves to  the  pr..possessions  and  prejudices  of  tlie  community  m 
^vhich  thev  live,  against  slavery  in  the  abstract,  and,  ava.hng 
then.selve's  of  these  prepossessions  and  prejudices    are  strug- 
Hin.r  to  control  political  events.  All  the  lovers  of  the  Un.on  of 
The  States,  and  all  patriotic  citizens,  whether  of  the  slavehold- 
in,r  or  ,u,n-siave]>olding  States,  ^vho  are  ardently  attached  to 
our  fr..e  institutions,  must  view  with  indignant  reprobation  the 
use  made  of  such  an  utdioly  agitation  with  such  objects.    I  he 
attempts  made  to  introduce  it  for  discussion  int*  the  federal 
Le.nslature  have  been  met  in  the  proper  spirit,  not  only  by 
Southern  Representatives,   but  by   a   large   portion  of    the 
Northern  delegation  in  Congress.     It  is   fortunate  for  the 
country,  that,  in  the  midst  of  this  agitation,  there  is  at  the 
head  Jf  the  Federal  Government  a  Chief  Magistrate  who,  in 
the  patriotic  discharge  of  his  high  duties,  has  placed  the  seal 
of  his  uiunuilifiecl  condemnation  upon  any  attempted  action 
bv  Con-ress  upor.  the  subject  of  slavery  in  any  manner,  or 
to  anv  extent,  whether  existing  within  the  States  or  w.th.n 
the  District  of  Columbia.     That  he  deserves  and  will  receive 
the  support  of  the  States  and  of  the  people,  in  every  portion 
of  the  Union,  in  maintaining  his  uncompromising  and  public- 
ly declared  determination  to  preserve  inviolate  the  compro- 
mises of  the  Federal  Constitution  and  the  reserved  rights  of 
the  shiveholding  States  on  this  subject,  cannot  be  doubted 

In  re'-ard  to\)ther  powers,  whicli  at  ditlerent  times  the 
FederaHJovernment  b.as  assumed,  or  aSempted  to  exercise, 
th,.  v.me  re;iKoninu  may  be  applied.  Among  these  may  be 
..nunw'rated  the  power  assumed  to  construct  works  ot  Inter- 
nnl  Improv.ir.ep.ts  within  the  States,  by  means  of  appropna- 
ti„ns  diav.n  from  the  National  Treasury;  the  power  of 
.'  abridging  the  freedom  of  speech,"  secured  by  the  Constitu- 
tion to  every  citizen,  by  enacting  laws  to  suppress  alleged 
sedition,  or  Uic  more  recent  attempts  to  enact  them  under 


~3.>Rwi»"?-iM»'*e-stf?n 


[1839. 


3  839.  J 


govkrnor'smessage. 


113 


ical  parties  of  the 
lioy  address  tlicm- 
f  tlie  community  in 
ract,  and,  availing 
judices,  are  strug- 
L-rs  of  tlie  Union  of 
r  of  the  slavehold- 
dently  attaclu'd  to 
lilt  reprobation  the 

such  objects.  Tlie 
m  intii  the  Federal 
spirit,  not  only  by 
no  portion  of   the 

fortunate  for  the 
tion,  ther(!  is  at  the 

Magistrate  who,  in 
has  placed  the  seal 
V  attempted  action 

in  any  manner,  or 
le  Stales   or  witliin 
■ves  and  will  receive 
pie,  in  every  portion 
i-omising  and  public- 
iniolate  the  compro- 
le  reserved  rights  of 
;annot  be  doubted. 
t  ditlerent  times  the 
;enipted  to  exercise, 
\niong  these  may  be 
ruct  works  of  Inter- 
uicans  of  appropria- 
iuiy  ;    the   power  of 
ured  by  the  Constitu- 

to  suppress  alleged 
to  enact  them  under 


the  more  plausible  pretence  of  "  securing  the  freedom  of 
elections." 

I  shall  most  cheerfully  cooperate  with  the  Legislative  and 
.ludicia]  Departments  of  the  State  Government,  by  all  the 
eoiistiluli(jnal  and  legal  means  within  the  competency  of  the 
Executive,  in  their  efforts  to  confine  the  action  of  the  State 
wiihin  proper  limits,  and  to  resist  the  encroachments  of  tho 
I'ederul  Government,  upon  her  reserved  rights  of  sovereignty. 
I  shall  as  cheerfully  cooperate  with  them  in  all  such  meas- 
ures as  shall  be  calculated  to  insure  economy  in  the  expen- 
ditures of  the  State  Government,  strict  accountability  on  tho 
part  of  public  officers,  the  promotion  of  virtue,  the  suppres- 
sion of  crime,  and  tho  development  of  the  wealth,  the  re- 
sources, and  the  energies  of  the  Statw. 

The  revised  Constitution  under  which  we  are  .acting  has  in- 
fusod  into  the  admuiistration  of  \hu  State  Government  more 
of  the  Democratic  principl<?  oi  immediate  and  direct  agency 
by  the  people  than  existed  under  the  former  Constitution. 
Instead  of  dv\o^:.:[ng,  as  the  old  Constitution  did,  tho  power 
of  appoin';:ig  many  important  ministerial  and  municipal  offi- 
cers to  the  judicial  tribunals  and  other  appointing  ao-ents,  tho 
people  are  now  their  own  agents,  and  make  the  appointments 
by  popular  elections.  The  higher  judicial  functionaries  iiold 
their  offices  by  a  tenure  restricted  to  a  term  of  years,  and 
not,  as  formerly,  by  the  tenure  for  life.  These  are  important 
cluuiges  in  the  fundamental  law  of  the  State.  In  practice 
ihey  have,  thus  far,  produced  no  inconvenience,  but  have 
worked  well. 

in  the  administration  of  the  State  Government  [  regard  it 
fortunate  that  there  are  but  few  subjects  of  internal  policy 
upon  which  there  exists  much  diversity  of  opinion.  The 
encouragement  of  a  "well-regulated  system  of  InternalJm- 
provemeiit,"  and  the  promotion  of  "  knowledge,  learning,  and 
virtue,"  as  "  being  essential  to  the  preservation  of  Republican 
institutions,"  are  duties  imposed  by  the  Constitution  of  the 


114 


JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


[183i). 


S(iit(i  upon  her  public  functiimiirips,  which  thoy  are  not  at 
liberty  to  disregard.  Under  the  deep  conviction  that  these 
are  subjects  of  jj;cneral  and  pervading  interest  to  the  whoh 
people  of  the  State,  I  shall  regard  it  to  be  my  duty  to  lend 
mv  aid  in  executing  the  injunctions  of  the  Constitution  in  a 
iilicral  spirit.  No  objects  are,  in  my  judgment,  more  worthy 
of  the  public  patronage  and  support. 

The  preservation  of  public  credit,  and  of  a  sound  curren- 
cy in  the  State,  will  undoubtedly  be  among  our  highcpt  du- 
ties. It  is  iv  prevailing  error  to  suppose  that  a  multiplication 
of  banks,  and  an  excessive  issue  of  paper  circulation,  can  ad- 
vance the  public  prosperity,  or  ailord  any  permanent  relief 
to  the  community  in  which  they  exist.  Instead  of  a  bless- 
ing, excessive  biuiking  generally  proves  to  be  a  curse.  Tlie 
bloated  state  of  apjiarent  jirosperity  which  they  temporarily 
<!xcite,  our  experience  has  shown,  has  invariably  been  fol- 
lowed by  derangement  of  the  money  market,  depreciation  •f 
the  currency,  and  finally  l)y  severe  pressure  and  suftering 
inthcted  on  "the  people.  'I'o  prevent  the  recurrence  of  such 
a  slate  of  things,  it  will  be  my  desire,  by  all  the  constitu- 
tional and  legal  restrictions  which  can  be  thrown  around 
them,  to  see  that  the  banl:s  which  may  exist  in  the  State, 
shall  be  based  upon  a  solid  f(nnidation,  and  confine  their 
operations  Avithin  their  reasoniible  means  to  meet  their  res]ion- 
sibilities  promptly.  I  will,  at  an  early  day,  avail  myself  of 
an  api)ropriate  occasion  to  make  to  the  (Jeneral  Assembly  of 
the  Slate,  now  in  session,  a  communication  touching  sub- 
jects which  may  seem  to  require  legislative  action  at  their 
present  session. 

It  will  be  my  duty,  under  the  Constitution  of  the  State, 
to  "  take  care  that  the  laws  be  faithfully  executed."  The 
Exeinuive  is  vested  with  no  legislative  discretion  or  power. 
The  laws  which  the  General  Assembly  shall  pass,  H  is  made 
his  duty  to  execute,  even  though  he  may  differ  in  opinion 
with  that   branch  of   the  State  Government   in  regard  to 


■f ijBTjwif.tfw^^  !r.\: 


!^-?r!:-ft'!;j'{  iWMi-^'-'-'-'^''''' W'M^^*^ 


[1839. 

thny  are  not  nt 
■iction  that  tlieso 
est  to  the  wholo 
my  duty  to  lend 
Constitution  in  a 
ent,  more  wortliy 

:  a  sound  curron- 

our  highest  du- 
,t  a  multiplication 
reulation,  can  ad- 

perinanent  relief 
itead  of  a  bless- 
)e  a  curse.     The 

they  temporarily 
ariably  been  fol- 
t,  depreciation  •f 
ire  and  sufterinsj; 
L'currencc  of  sucii 

all  the  constitu- 
e  thrown  around 
cist  in  the  State, 
md  confine  their 
meet  their  res j)on- 
)■,  avail  myself  of 
leral  Assembly  of 
on  touching  sub- 
•e  action  at  their 

tion  of  the  State, 
executed."  The 
cretion  or  power. 
11  pass,  il  is  mado 
differ  in  opinion 
ent  in  rco;ard  to 


■y  ..Kf '-■'W'ytiiyaquMroLwiwjijPwan'-fcf'  UJLJ  ^ ' " 


1839-41. J      EXECUTIVE   RECOMMENDATIONS. 


116 


This  duty  I  shall  faithfully  per- 


their  wisdom  or  policy, 
form. 

Relying  confidently  upon  the  support  of  my  fellow-citi- 
zens, and  invoking  the  aid  and  guidance  of  the  Supremo 
Ruler  of  the  Universe,  in  whose  hands  are  the  destinies  of 
government,  and  of  men,  I  enter  upon  the  discharge  of  the 
high  duties  which  have  been  assigned  me  by  the  people. 

By  the  amended  constitution  of  Tennessee,  provision 
was  made  for  such  works  of  internal  improvement  as  the 
goograpliical  position  of  the  state  rendered  necessary ; 
and  in  his  first  regular  message,  delivered  to  the  two 
houses  of  the  General  Assembly  on  the  22d  of  October, 
1839,  Governor  Polk  advised  the  "  vigorous  prosecution 
of  a  judicious  system  of  improvements,"  and  that  "  a 
board  of  public  works,  to  be  composed  of  two  or  more 
competent  and  scientific  men,  should  be  authorized,  and 
their  duties  established  by  law." 

In  the  same  message  he  recommended  the  revision  of 
the  laws  prohibiting  the  practice  of  betting  on  elections, 
which,  he  says,  "  begets  excitement  and  engenders  strife ; 
and  it  but  too  often  happens,  that  those  who  have  stakes 
at  hazard,  become  more  interested  to  secure  them,  than 
by  a  dispassionate  exercise  of  the  right  of  suflTrage,  to  se- 
cure the  public  good." 

Of  unwise  or  irresponsible  issues  of  paper  money,  or 
paper  credits  intended  for  circulation  as  money,  he  was 
always  jealous ;  and  in  his  second  regular  message  to 
the  legislature,  in  1841,  he  advised  "  a  revision  of  the 
kws  prohibiting  the  issuance  of  change  tickets  or  small 
paper  bills,  by  individuals  and  corporations  other  than 
banks,"  for  the  reason,  as  stated  by  him,  that  "  some  of 


---.-.-tss 


11  fi 


JAMF.S    KNOX    POLK. 


,1841-13. 


:li(\  iritPi-rml  impvov.'iiuM-t  coiiipaiiios  iu  which  the  stut.j 
^va^  a  copartiu-r,"  hivl  i^.u.-J  "  «>n:ill  l^'F''  l'''!'"^  '"  ^'''^ 
ionn  of  i-nii)  or  checks,  and  put  them  into  clrcuhnioii  as 
luciicy,  wiLUout  any  specie  buiis  upon  which  to  rest,  and 
witluiut  authority  of  hiw." 

Tiio  administration  of  tho  state  government  by  Mr. 
\\,\k  wa.s  satisfactory  to  the  public,  and  liis  course  as 
c'lU'f  ma;:i-trate  wa:'   well  calculated  to  harmoniza  tho 
larty  of  which,  by  tlie  death  of  his  old  friend  and  pre- 
ceptor, Mr.  Grundy,  in  1840,  ho  had  become  the  ac- 
knowledged head.     He  did  not  have  occasion,  while  fill- 
ing theollice  of  governor,  to  endorse' any  of  the  great 
principles  of  the  democratic  party,  except  in  his  inaugural 
address ;  nor  were  any  important  measures  of  state  poli- 
cy adopted  under  his  particular  auspices. 
■    Unlike  tho  executives  of  other  states,  the  Governor 
of  Tennessee  possesses  no  veto  power ;  neither  has  ho 
the  authority  to  commute  the  punishment  of  CJipital  oflend- 
ers  10  imprisonment  for  life.     The  cares  and  responsi- 
bilities of  tho  executive  are  therefore  comparatively  liglit ; 
and  as  the  legislature  meets  only  once  in  two  years,  the 
duties  are  much  less  laborious  than  where  the  laws  to  bo 
executed  arc  constantly  being  changed  or  repealed. 

Tiie  term  of  office  of  Mr.  Polk  expired  in  October, 
1841,  but  at  the  August  election  of  that  year,  he  was 
again  a  candidate.  His  prospects  of  defeat  could  hardly 
be  considered  doubtful ;  inasmuch  as  the  whirlwind,  which 
had  prostrated  the  democratic  party  in  1840  throughout 
the  Union,  had  swept  over  the  State  of  Tennessee  with 
irresistible  force.  The  Harrison  electoral  ticket  had 
succeeded  by  more  (l\an  twelve  thousand  majority.    To 


■■;»Lj.iv*<,_irt;ii.ijj;:iiyii'.".i'j;iWf'. 


**^^ 


1841-13. 


wliicli  the  Btiito 
H^-r  liilln  ill  tho 
to  clrciilaliou  tiii 
iicli  to  vest,  uml 

nitncnt  hy  Mr. 

I  Ilia  couvso  as 

0  hannoiiizt!  the 

fi'iend  and  pi't-'- 

becoine  the  ac- 

;asion,  Avhih;  fill- 

luy  of  the  griiit 

in  his  iiiiui^iiiiil 

pea  of  state  poli- 

3,  the  Governor 
;  neither  has  ho 
of  capital  oileiul- 
ea  and  rosponsi- 
iparatively  liglit ; 

II  two  years,  tlio 
ire  tho  laws  to  bo 
or  repealed. 
)ired  in  October, 
liat  year,  he  was 
feat  could  hardly 

■whirlwind,  Avhich 

1840  throughout 

if  Tennessee  witli 

ctoral  ticket  had 

id  majority.    To 


1 ,11 1^  ■ 


IIM.  HHV»  I     l»>,IIW 


nAii&SlMlMSUL' 


1 


1841— 13. j  CANDIDATE    FOR    KE-EI.ECTIO.V.  117 

overcoiiio  tiiis  heavy  vote  was  impossible ;  but  Mr.  Polk 
enrcred  upon  the  canvass  with  his  accustomed  spirit  and 
encr;,'y.  His  compc'titor  was  jaincs  C.  Jones,  a  most  ef- 
feetiv,'  speaker,  and  di'ui.kMlly  the  most  popular  man  at 
that  li  uj  in  tho  wliig  jjurty  of  the  state. 

Personal  good  foelin;;  on  the  part  of  the  opposing  can- 
didates .•liaractcrizfd  tliis  contest,  as  it  had  that  of  lH.!]l). 
Mr.  Poliv  frankly  ami  cordially  met  Mr,  Jones  on  the 
stump  and  trnvelled  in  company  with  him;  and,  it  is 
said,  thoy  slept  in  tlie  same  bed  on  one  occasion,  liut 
all  the  elloits  of  Mr.  Polk  proved  unavailing.  The  poli- 
ties of  the  state  w<t;>  for  the  time  firmly  fixed  in  oppo- 
sition  to  his  own.  lie  was  defeated,  but  in  his  del'eat 
achieved  a  trinmpli,  by  the  reduction  of  the  whig  ma- 
jority to  about  three  thousand.  In  1843  he  was  once 
more  a  candidate  in  opposition  to  Governor  Jones,  but  tho 
latter  was  roAlected  by  nearly  four  th>  jsand  majority. 


,  CHAPTER  VII. 

rivsl(li>nlliil  Tativnai  of  IHU— Tho  Texan  Uiiention— Letter  of  Mr.  Polk  to 
lliu  Citiietn  of  C'incinuall'.— The  linltimore  Convention— NoiiiiimUoii  of 
Mr.  I'olk— Ui«  Acceptaiico— lloKoliitioim  of  tlio  Convention— 'I'lio  KUc- 
Uon— Ueooiilion  at  .Niulivillo- .fourney  of  llio  I'reniiiout  Lluct  to  \V11.5I1- 
lii({ton — lliu  Inaugurotion — AJ<lri'M. 

(Jn  leaving  the  executive  chiiir  of  Temicsseo,  Mr.  Polk 
returned,  without  a  single  murmur  or  feeling  of  rc;,'ret, 
to  private  life.  Its  peace  and  tranquillity,  it.s  hapitine.s.s 
and  content,  its  calm  and  sweet  pleaaures,  were  congenial 
to  Lis  disposition  and  his  tastes.  Fortune  had  not 
showered  wealth  upon  him  with  a  lavish  hand  ;  nor  had 
ifc  ever  taken  advantage  of  the  frequent  opportunities 
presented  to  him,  to  enrich  himself  by  speculation.  Fcs- 
tina  lente—^^  make  haste  slbwly"— was  hi«  motto  in  the 
studies  and  pursuits  of  his  youth,  and  in  the  occupati^nrf 
of  maturer  years.  He  possessed  a  competence — all  thiit 
'he  needed  or  desired — which  enabled  him  to  be  liberal  in 
the  bestowment  of  his  charities,  and  to  dispense  a  gener- 
ous hospitality  to  his  numerous  friends.  And  more  than 
all,  and  above  all,  there  dwelt  by  his  fireside  a  minister- 
ing angel,  whose  virtues  and  graces  made  his  homo  a 
paradise  of  joys. 

But  a  politician,  like  a  revolution,  can  rarely  go  back- 
ward. As  a  combatant  who  entered  the  lists  at  the 
Olympian  Games  could  not  retire  without  dishonor,  so 


iw^ii!uai-jj.Mjia),;. 


niM»i^.i,aifeiii,jf|:ifCwtfi 


1841.] 


fRftWDKNTIAL   CANVASS. 


119 


ettcrof  Mr.  Polk  to 
tion — N'oiiiiimlioii  of 
iveiitioii — 'I'liu  i;ii'e- 
Iciit  Lluct  to  W'lisli- 


losseo,  Mr.  Polk 
fling  of  ri';j;iet, 
y,  its  liapjiiiioss 
,  wore  congfiiiul 
srtuiio  hud   not 

hund  ;  nor  had 
at  opportunities 
cciiliition.  iV'A'- 
liin  motto  in  the 

the  occupiitionH 
etoncc — all  tlint 
I  to  bo  liberal  in 
ispensc  a  gcncr- 

And  more  than 
isido  a  ministcr- 
ade  his  homo  a 

rarely  go  back- 
the  lists  at  the 
out  dishonor,  so 


he  who  has  long  h(>en  before  tlm  people  as  a  candidate 
for  their  siiUVages,  and  boon  elevated  I*/  tliem  to  po.si- 
tinns  of  distinetion,  is  not  often  ponnitted  to  withdraw 
himself  voluntarily  from  tho  political  arena.    The  claims 
of  party  friends  upon  the  loader  whom  thoy  have  sup- 
l>ortcd  are  always  strong,  and  generally  irresistible.    Mr. 
I*i)lk  was  not  without  ambition  ;  but  ho  preferred  hcnce- 
loith  to  rely  upon  others  to  secure  his  advancement,  if 
tlit>y  desired  so  to  do,  and  contented  himself  with  being 
in  the  main  a  passive  instrument   in  their  hands.      In 
JSU  and  1.S4.'{,  he  camo  forward  as  a  candidate  for  gov- 
ernor, only  in  compliance  with  the  general  desire  of  liis 
party. 

'Che  wishes  and  expectations  of  his  friends  were  early 
fixed  on  the  presidential   oIKee.     At  tli((  session  of  tho 
'IVnnessee  legislature  in  1S:5!I,  he  ^^^•H  noiniiiiited  by  tliiit 
boily  for  the  vice-presidency,  to  be  plaeed  on  the  ticket 
with  Mr.  Van  IJuren,  a  ;d  wllli  tiic  cxin-ctation,  no  (loiil)t, 
that  he  miu;lit  sncecid  I'lat  p'litlein.in  in  the  higher  ofliee. 
lie  was  afterward  nominated  in  other  states  for  the  same 
position;  but  as  Colonel  Jolnison  seemed  to  bo  the  choiee 
<if  tlie  great  body  of  t!ie  republican  party  in  the  Union, 
no  efforts  of  importance  were  ma<le  by  the  friends  of  the 
iormer,  and  at  tho  election  in  IH-JO  he  received  but  one 
electoral  vote,  in  the  college  of  Virginia. 

From  the  time  of  the  defeat  of  Mr.  Van  Buren,  in 
■JS40,  up  to  within  a  few  weeks  previous  to  the  assem- 
bling of  tho  national  democratic  convention  at  Baltimore, 
jn  May,  1844,  public  opinion  in  tho  republican  party 
seemed  to  bo  firmly  fixetl  upon  him  as  their  candidate  for 
reelection  to  the  station  which  he  had  once  filled.     But 


-  '»»liiJt..fefel 


120 


JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


[1844. 


in  the  month  of  April,  1844,  a  treaty  was  concludca 
un.ler  the  auspices  of  Presuk'nt  Tyler,  between  the  rep- 
resentatives of  the  government  of  the  United  States  and 
of  the  republic  qf  Texas,  providing  for  the  annexation* 
of  the  latter  to  the  American  Confederacy.     This  meas- 
ure, though  long  in  conttmplation,  like  the  apple  of  dis- 
cord, was  fruitful  in  strife  and  dissension.     Hitherto  it 
had  been  conceded  on  every  hand,  that  Mr.  Van  Buren 
and  Mr.  Clay  ought  to  be,  and  woiiid  be,  the  rival  candi- 
dates for  the  p,-e8idenc5'  in  1844  ;  but  now  the  political 
elements  were  thrown  into,  complete   confusion.      The 
opinions  of  almost  every  public  man  in  the  United  States 
were  inquired  after ;  and  among  others,  Mr.  Polk  was 
addressed,  it  being  understood  that  he  would  be  a  promi- 
nent candidate  at  the   Baltimore   Convention  for  the  re 
publican  nomination  for  vice-pres'.dent.    At  a  meeting  of 
citizens  of  Cincinnati  opposed   to  the  annexation,  held 
on  the  29th  of  March,  a  conimittco  was  appointed  to  cor- 
respond with  tiie  prominent  men  of  both  political  parties, 
and  to  solicit  from  them  an  expression  of  their  views  upon 
the  Texas  question.     From  this  connuittee  Mr.  Polk  re- 
ceived a  letter,  accompanying  a  copy  of  the  proceedings 
of  the  meeting  at  Cincinnati,  to  which  he  returned  the 
following  reply  :-^  ,  .   . 

CoMiMniA,  Tennesspe,  April  22,  1844. 

Gentlemen  .— Your  letter  of  tlie  30th  ult.,  which  you 
have  done  me  the  honor  to  ad<lress  to  me,  reached  my 
residence  during  my  absence  from  home,  ami  was  not  re- 

•  The  term  reannexation  wo.-  fix-qiicntly  UHfl  .luriiig  llie  canvass,  ns  sy- 
nonymous with  aiwcmtioH  ;  hocunse  Ti'Xiis  .,;  -in.iUy  fnrino.l  part  of  the 
Louisiaua  purohdse,  and  belongud  tu  tUe  Uuitrl  Slates. 


■'«!iwj»jfe»tf».j.i8»e!y'.M>i»*a"'!gi 


[1844. 

was  concluded 
;t\vocii  the  rep- 
itecl  States  and 
10  annexation* 
r.  This  nieas- 
0  apple  of  dis- 
[1.  Hitherto  it 
dr.  Van  Buren 
the  rival  candi- 
)w  the  political 
infusion.  The 
B  United  States 
,  Mr.  Polk  was 
uld  be  a  promi- 
ition  for  the  re 
\t  a  meeting  of 
iinexation,  held 
apointcd  to  cor- 
)olitical  parties, 
;heir  views  upon 
;e  Mr.  Polk  re- 
the  proceedings 
le  returned  the 


>e,  April  22,  1844. 
I  ult.,  which  you 
ne,  roached  my 
and  was  not  re- 

;^  the  canvass,  ns  sy- 
y  I'.Miiio.l  part  of  the 


BlMifea3l.'i^.: 


1844.] 


LETTER   ON   ANNEXATION. 


121 


ceived  until  yesterday.     Accompanying  your  letter  you 
transmit  to  me,  as  you  state,  "  a  copy  of  the  proceedings 
of  a  very  large  meeting  of  the  citizens  of  Cincinnati,  as- 
sembled on  the  29th  ult,,  to  express  their  settled  opposi- 
tion to  the  annexation  of  Texas  to  thc\jniicd  States." 
You  request  from  me  an  explicit  expression  of  opinion 
upon  this  question  of  annexation.     Having  at  no  time 
entertained  opinions  upon  public  subjects  which  I  was 
unwilling  to  avow,  it  gives  me  pleasure  to  comply  with 
the   request.     I   have  no  hesitation   in  declaring,  that 
I  am  in  favor  of  the  immediate  reiinnexation  of  Texas  to 
the  territory  and  government  of  the  United  States.     I 
entertain  no  doubts  as  to  the  power  or  expediency  of  the 
reannexatlon.     The  proof  is  fair  and  satisfactory  to  my 
own  mind,  that  Texas  oiice  constituted  a  part  of  the  ter- 
ritory of  the  United  States,  the  title  to  which  I  regard  to 
have  been  indisputable  as  that  to  any  portion  of  our  ter- 
ritory.    At  the  time  the  negotiation  was  opened  with  a 
view  to  acquire  the  Floridas,  and  the  settlement  of  other 
questions,  and  pending  that  negotiation,  the  Spanish  Gov- 
ernment itself  was  satisfied  of  the  validity  of  our  title, 
and  was  ready  to  recognize  a  line  far  west  of  the  Sabine 
as  the  true  western  boundary  of  Louisiana,  as  defined  by 
the  treaty  of  1803  with  France,  under  which  Louisiana 
was   acquired.     This   negotiation,   which    had   at  first 
opened  at  Madrid,  was  broken  ofi"  and   transferred  to 
Washington,  where  it  was  resumed,  and  resulted  in  the 
treaty  with  Florida,  by  which  the  Sabine  was  fixed  on  as 
the  western  boundary  of  Louisiana.     From  the  ratifica- 
tion of  the  treaty  of  1803  with  France,  until  the  treaty  of 
L819,  with  Spain,  the  territory  now  constituting  the  Re- 
ft 


l-'r?i.itf..H!ji-J^'"'a'i»'ii'4^'^.-; 


Tf^ijfi^^ilfHK*'^ 


122 


JAMES  KNOX   POLK. 


[1844 


public  of  Texas,  belonged  to  the  United  States.   In  1819 
the  Florida  treaty  was  concluded  at  Washington,  by  Mr. 
John  Q.  Adams,  (the  Secretary  of  State,)  on  the  part  of 
the  United  States,  and  Don  Luis  de  Onis  on  the  part  of 
Spain  ;  and  by  that  treaty  this  territory  lying  west  of  the 
Sabine,  and  constituting  Texas,  was  ceded  by  the  United 
States  to  Spain.    The  Rio  del  Norte,  or  some  more  west- 
em  boundary  than  the  Sabine,  could  have  been  obtained, 
had  it  been  insisted  on  by  the  American  Secretary  of 
State,  and  by  increasing  the  consideration  paid  for  the 
Floridas.    In  my  judgment,  the  country  west  of  the  Sa- 
bine, and  now  called  Texas,  was  most  unwisely  ceded 
away.    It  is  a  part  of  the  great  valley  of  the  Mississippi, 
tUrectly  connected  by  its  navigable  waters  with  the  Mis- 
sissippi river  :  and  having  once  been  a  part  of  our  Union, 
it  should  never  have  been  dismembered  from  it.     The 
Government  and  people  of  Texas,  it  is  understood,  not 
only  give  their  consent,  but  are  anxiously  desirous  to  be 
reunited  to  the  United  States.     If  the  application  of 
Texas  for  a  reunion  and  admission  into  our  Confederacy, 
shall  be  rejected  by  the  United  States,  there  is  imminent 
danger  that  she  will  become  a  dependency  if  not  a  colony 
of  Great  Britain— an  event  which  no  American  patriot, 
anxious  for  the  safety  and  prosperity  of  this  country, 
cc  l(!  permit  to  occur  without  the  most  strenuous  resist- 
ance.   Let  Texaa  be  reannexed,  and  the  authority  and 
laws  of  the  United  States  be  established  and  maintained 
within  her  limits,  as  also  in  the  Oregon  Territory,  and 
let  the  fixed  policy  of  our  Government  be,  not  to  permit 
Great  Britain  or  any  other  foreign  power  to  plant  a  col 
i>ny  or  hold  dominion  over  any  portion  of  the  people  oi 
territory  of  either. 


atw»«ii.<wwMiMuaw:.twJt^w9^»wwi4'T^^  — 


[1844 

»tes.   In  1819 
lington,  by  Mr. 
on  the  part  of 
on  the  part  of 
ing  west  of  the 
I  by  the  United 
)me  more  west- 
been  obtained, 
n  Secretary  of 
n  paid  for  the 
rest  of  the  Sa- 
mwisely  ceded 
le  Mississippi, 
with  the  Mis- 
;  of  our  Union, 
Tom  it.     The 
nderstood,  not 
desirous  to  be 
ipplication  of 
'  Confederacy, 
•e  is  imminent 
if  not  a  colony 
jrican  patriot, 
this  country, 
jnuous  resist- 
authority  and 
id  maintained 
'erritory,  and 
not  to  permit 
0  plant  a  col 
:he  people  oi 


1844.] 


THE   TEXAS    QUESTION. 


128 


These  are  my  opinions  ;  and  without  dooming  it  neces- 
sary to  extend  this  letter,  by  assigning  the  many  reasons 
which  mfluence  me  in  the  conclusions  to  which  I  come  I 
rogretto  be  compelled  to  differ  so  widely  from  the  views 
expressed  by  yourselves,  and  the  meetir.g  of  citizens  of 
Cm«mnati  whom  you  represent.  Differing,  however 
^with  you  and  with  ch.m  as  I  do,  it  was  due  to  frai^kness 
that  I  should  be  thus  explicit  in  the  declaration  of  my 
opinions.  •'  ■  ^ 

I  am.  with  great  respect, 

Your  obedient  servant, 
T.  A/r       =  n  ^  James  K.  Polk. 

To  Messrs.  S.  P.  Cjiasb,  Thomas  IIeaton,  &«.,  &c., 
Comiuittoe,  Cincinnati. 

.Mr.  Polk  concurred  in  the  opinion  entertained,  and 
expressed  on  various  occasions,  by  the  most  distinguished 
statesmen   and  diplomatists  of  the   United  States-bv 
Jefferson,  Madison,  Monroe,  Livingston,  Clay,  Adam.s 
Jackson,  and   Van  Buren-that  Texas  formed  part  of  ' 
Louisiana,  and  was  included  in  the  territory  ceded  to  the 
American  government  by  France  in  1803.     La  Sallo   -x 
Frenchman,  was  the  first  white  man  that  descended  the 
Mississippi  river  to  its  mouth,  and  "  the  first  to  display 
the  hly  of  France  to  the  winds  df  that  imperial  valley.'' 
The  first  white  colony,  too,  planted  in  Texas,  was  estab- 
lished by  the  French,  under  La  Salle,  on  the  bay  of  St. 
Bernard,  or  Matagorda,  in  the  year  1685.  *     The  Span- 
iards, indeed,  claimed  that  the  country  formed  part  of 
the  conquest  of  Cort6s,  and  in  1690  they  drove  out  the 

*  Mutbois'  History  of  Louisiana,  p.  107. 


.^mMi. 


■-g...-Mai^-j(isai!i!;i«»'' 


124 


JAMES   KNOX  FOLK. 


[1844 


French  colony,  and  made  their  first  permanent  settlement 
at  San  Francisco ;  but  the  French  always  insisted  upon 
their  prior  right  of  discovery,  and  the  early  Spanish  ge- 
ographers seemed  more  than  half  disposed  to  concede  it.* 
Texas  was  included  in  the  grant  made  by  Louis  XIV. 
t.)  Crozat,  Marquis  du  Chatel,  in  lT12.t     It  was  suj>sc- 
.jticntly  ceded  to  Spain,  in  1701,  and  in  1800  retroccdod 
to  France,  as  a  part  of  Louisiana,  by  the  treaty  of  San 
Udefonso.     Such,  at  least,  was  the  understanding  of  the 
'   French  government,  and  of  the  American  plenipotcntia- 
ries,t  when  the  treaty  of  1803  was  concluded,  by  which 
the  United  States  acquired  all  "  the  rights  and  appurte- 
nances "  belonging  to  France  under  or  by  virtue  of  the 
treaty  of  San  ^Idefonsc^    The  Spanish  government,  with 
tlie  tenacity  peculiar  to  their  national   character,  still 
urged   their  claims,  and  were  desirous  of  limiting  the 
United  States  to  the  valley  of  the  Mississippi  proper.    A 
protracted  negotiation  ensued  between  them  and  Spain. 
,  The  latter  was  inclined  to  surrender  all  her  pretensions 
to  the  territory  extending  westward  from  the  Mississippi 
to  the  Rio  Grande  ;||  but  this  was  rendered  unnecessary, 
as  the  government  of  the  United  States  consented  to  re- 
nounce its  rights  west  of  the  Sabine  river,  in  considera- 
tion of  the  cessioh  of  the  Floridas,  by  the  treaty  of 
1819.11     And,  what  is  a  remarkable  feature  in  this  ne- 

•  Dicoionario  Geografico-Historico  de  las  Indiaa  Oeoidentales  6  Ame- 
rica, (Madrid,  1789,)  v.  "  Louisiana." 
1 1  Laws,  489. 

}  Marbois'  History  of  Louisiana,  p.  107,  et  seq. 
§  Lyman's  Diplomacy,  vol.  i,  p.  399. 

II  Expose  of  Hon.  George  W.  Erving,  American  MinlatertO  Sp^. 
t  Elliott's  Diplomatic  Code,  vol.  i.,  p.  417. 


SSB»CSaBH 


[1844 

icnt  settlement 
)  insisted  upon 
ly  Spanish  go- 
to concede  it.*' 
\y  Louis  XIV. 

It  was  su^se- 
]00  retrocedod 
treaty  of  San 
standing  of  the 

plenipotcntia- 
.ded,  by  which 
8  and  appurtc- 
y  virtue  of  the 
ivemment,  with 
character,  still 
3f  limiting  the 
ppi  proper.  A 
em  and  Spain, 
her  pretensions 
the  Mississippi 
;d  unnecessary, 
onsented  to  re- 
(r,  in  considcra- 

the  treaty  of 
tare  in  this  ne- 

>ooidentalea  6  Amc* 


nlstertoSp^. 


:-,-,i^.Aai!Jj*)-^jt'-'j3>iJi 


.1844. J 


HIS    VIEWS. 


125 


gotiation,  when  the  Spanish  minister,  Don  Luis  de  Onis, 
who  had  concluded   the  treaty  on  the  part  of  liis  govcin- 
mcnt,  returned  homo,  he  boasted  that  he  had  obtained  a 
,  great  advantage,  by  his  superior  tact  and  ability. 

The  cession  of  Texas,  or  the  renunciation  of  the  Amer- 
ican claim,  in  1819,  was,  in  the  opinion  of  Mr.  Pulk, 
most  unwisely  made ;  and  he  heartily  approved  of  the 
efforts  of  John  Quincy  Adams  and  Andrew  Jackson, 
during  their  respective  administrations,  to  recover  the 
territory  thus  surrendered.  He  therefore  favored  the 
rci'foquisition,  or  reiinnexation  of  Texas,  when  the  meas- 
ure was  first  proposed.  It  was  desirable,  in  his  estima- 
tion, in  a  geographical  point  of  view,  because  the  territo- 
ry formed  a  most  valuable  part  of  the  valley  of  the  Mis- 
sissippi ;  and  highly  important,  in  a  military  aspect,  for 
the  security  of  New  Orleans,  the  great  commercial  mart 
in  the  southwestern  part  of  the  Union,  which  would  be 
endangered,  in  time  of  war,  by  a  hostile  power  being  in 
such  close  proximity,  and  having  the  control  of  the  upper 
waters  of  the  Red  river,  by  which  it  could  be  approach- 
ed, or  seriously  menaced,  in  the  rear. 

There  was  but  one  question  of  doubt  connected  with 
tlie  proposition  for  the  annexation  of  Texas ;  and  that 
was,  in  what  manner,  and  to  what  extent,  it  would  affect 
the  relations  of  the  United  States  with  Mexico,  already  on 
a  most  unfriendly  footing.  But  the  difficulty  which  this 
(luestion  presented,  was  rather  apparent  than  real.  .Un- 
der the  Spanish  colonial  government,  Texas  was  a  separ- 
ate and  distinct  province,  having  a  separate  and  distinct 
local  organization  ;  and  it  remained  in  that  condition  un- 
til its  temporary  union  with  Coahuila,  with  which  it 
formed  the  '.'.State  of  Coaliuila  y  Tejas." 


126 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


fl844. 


Texas  "  was  one  of  the  unities  that  composed  the  gen- 
oral  mass  of  the  nation,  and  as  such  participated  in  tho 
war  of  the  Revolution,  and  was  represented  in  the  Con- 
stituent Congress  of  Mexico  that  formed  the  constitution  • 
of  1824.     This  Constituent  Congress,  so  far  from   de- 
stroying this  unity,  expressly  recognized  and  confirmed  it, 
by  tlic  law  of  May  7th,  1824,  which  united   Texas  witli 
Coalmila  provisionally,  under  the  especial  guarantee  of 
beinir  made  a  state  of  the  Mexican  confederation  as  soon 
as  it  possessed  the  necessary  elements.     That  law  and 
tho  federal  constitution  gave  to  Texas  a  specific  political 
existence,  and  vested  in  its  uihabitants  special  and  defined 
rights,  which  can  only  be  relinquished  by  the  people  of 
Texas  acting  for  themselves  as  a  unity  and  not  as  a  part 
of  Coahuila,  for  the. reason  that  the  union  with  Coahuila 
was  limited,  and  only  gave  power  to  the  state  of  Coahuila 
and  Texas  to  govern  Texas  for  the  time  being,  but  al- 
ways subject  to  the  vested  rights  of  Tctas.     The  state, 
therefore,  cannot  relinquish  those  vested  rights,  by  agree- 
ing to  the  change  of  government,  or  by  any  other  act, 
unless  expressly  authorized  by  the  people  of  Texas  to  do 
so  5  neither  can  the  general  government  of  Mexico  legally 
deprive  Texas  of  them  without  the  consent  of  this  peo- 
ple."*    Under  the  constitution  of  Coahuila  and  Texas, 
also,  the  latter  was  absolutely  "  free  and  independent  of 
the  other  united  Mexican  States. "f 

The  history  of  the  revolution  in  Texas  must  be  familiar 
to  every  American  reader,  and  it  is  therefore  unnecessary 

•  Speech  of  Colonel  Austin,  quoted  in  Foote'g  Te:5M  aqd  the  Texans, 
vol.  ii.,  p.  62. 
t  Kennedy's  Texas,  vol.  ii.,p.  444. 


[1844. 

poHod  the  gen- 
icipatci  in  the 
cd  in  the  Cou- 
hc  constitution  • 
>  far  from  dc- 
id  confirmed  it, 
d  Texas  with 
1  guarantee  of 
jration  as  soon 
That  law  and 
pecific  politiciil 
3ial  and  defined 

the  people  of 
d  not  as  a  part 
with  Coahuila 
ate  of  Coahuila 
being,  but  al- 
ts. The  state, 
ights,  by  agree- 
any  other  act, 
of  Texas  to  do 
'  Mexico  legally 
nt  of  this  peo- 
lila  and  Texas, 

independent  of 

mst  be  familiar 
are  unnecessary 

as  aod  the  Tezans, 


1844.] 


REVOLUTION    IN   TKXAS. 


127 


to  present  here  thp  details  of  that  memorable  struggle. 
In  18;38,  the  people  of  Texaa  adopted  a  state  constitu- 
tion, and  in  accordance  with  the  guarantee  of  1824,  ap 
plied  for  admission  into  the  Mexican  confederacy  as  a 
separate  state.  The  request  was  denied,  by  the  authori- 
ties of  the  general  government  of  Mexico,  and  that  under 
ciicunistances,  and  in  a  manner,  which  reflected  lasting 
disgrace  upon  them.  Two  years  later  the  confederacy 
\viis  dissolved,  and  a  consolidated  governruent  e.^tablisliod 
in  its  stead,  in  Uclohcr,  IS:};},  Uy  the  dictator  Santa 
Anna.  The  confederation  being  broken,  each  one  of  its 
members  was  from  that  moment  absolved  from  all  alle- 
giance to  the  central  authority.  Availing  herself  of  her 
indisputable  right  and^rivilege,  Texas  promptly  refused 
to  acquiesce  in  the  new  order  of  things,  and  by  a  solemn 
decree  proclaimed  her  independence  of  the  central  gov- 
ernment of  Mexico.*  This  declaration  was  maintained 
by  force  of  arms;  .and  on  the  21st  of  April,  1836,  tho 
lust  considerable  army  ever  sent  by  Mexico  to  subjugate 
I'exas,  was  completely  vanquished  and  overthrown,  on 
the  banks  of  the  San  Jacinto. 

From  this  time  forth,  the  efforts  of  Mexico  to  reduce 
Texas  to  submission  to  her  power  and  authority,  were 
confined,  to  border  forays  and  predatory  incursions,  in 
which  acts  of  wanton  cruelty  and  injustice,  unworthy  of 
a  civilized  nation,  were  committed  by  the  officers  of  her 
armies.  Yet  they  found  it  utterly  impossible  to  obtain 
undisturbed  possession  of  any  portion  of  the  territory 
north  of  the  Rio  Grande,  which  Texas  now  claimed  to  be 
her  southerii  and  western  boundary,  and  below  the  moun- 

•  Kennedy's  Texas,  vol.  ii,  pp,  61,  89,  lU. 


ir 


I 

i 

I 


i^j„'iaii^jiiiiT,--.j  1 


■lljlj_lll'llll    lljll'    — 


128 


JAMKS    KNOX    POLK. 


[1844, 


taiiious  barritrs  at  Kl  Piiso ;  and  caoli  year  that  rolled 
bv,  only  served  to  demotistrutc  nioro  clearly,  the  baoility 
of  Mexico  to  subdue  the  people  of  Texas. 

The  independence  which  Texas  had  achieved,  was  ac- 
knowledged by  the  goveniment  of  the  United  States,  in 
March,  °1837,    and   shortly    afterward,    by   England, 
France,  Holland,  and  Belgium.     This  acknowledgment 
only  admitted  that  Trxas  was  de  facto  independent,  and 
left  the  question,  whether  or  no  she  was  a  de  jure  gov- 
ernment, to  bo  determined  by  subsequent  events.     But 
after  six  years  had  passed  without  any  serious  eftbrts 
laving  been  made  by  Mexico  to  conquer  Texas,   the 
American  Secretary  of  State  instructed  the  representa- 
.ivc  of  his  government  in  the  former  country,  that  the 
United  States  regarded  Texas  as  an  independent  state, 
equally  with  Mexico,  and  as  forming  "  no  part  of  the 
territory  of  Mexico."     "  From  the  time,"  said  the  dis- 
patch, "  of  the  battle  of  San  Jacinto,  in  April,  1836,  to 
the  p  escnt  moment,  Texas  has  exhibited  the  same  exter- 
nal signs  of  national  independence  as  Mexico  herself,  and 
with  quite  as  much  stability  of  government.     Practically 
free  and  independent,  acknowledged  as  a  political  sov- 
ereignty by  the  principal  powers  of  the  world,  no  hostile 
foot  finding  rest  within  her  territory  for  six  or  seven 
years,  and  Mexico  herself  refraining  for  all  that  period 
from  any  further  attempt  to  reestablish  her  own  authority 
over  the  territory."* 

This  affirmation,  authoritatively  made  by  the  American 
1  government,  of  the  principle,  that  a  revolted  province, 
''  by  maintaining  a  successful  resistance  to  the  authority 

•  Dispatch  of  Mr.  Webster,  July  8,  1842. 


'  I  iigi'Mni  mv* ' 


[1844, 

i^car  that  rolled 
rly,  tlio  balaility 
I. 

hieved,  was  ac- 
nited  States,  in 
,  by  England, 
acknowledgment 
tidependent,  and 
8  a  rfc  jure  gov- 
it  events.  But 
Y  serious  eftbrts 
uer  Texas,   the 

the  representa- 
)untry,  that  the 
lependent  state, 
'  no  part  of  the 
B,"  said  the  dis- 
,  April,  1836,  to 

the  same  exter- 
xico  herself,  and 
nt.     Practically 

a  political  sov- 
world,  no  hostile 
for  six  or  seven 
r  all  that  period 
ler  own  authority 

by  the  American 
cvolted  province, 
to  the  authority 

I,  1842. 


1844.J 


RIGHTS    OF    MEXICO. 


m 


of  the  mother  country — admitting  tliat  such  was  tho  ro- 
Intionship  between  Mexico  and  Texas,  as  was  claimed  by 
tho  former — for  a  period  of  six  or  seven  years,  acquired 
the  right  to  bo  regarded,  for  all  and  every  purpose,  as  an 
independent  nation,  was  communicated  to  the  Mexican 
authorities.  A  feeble  and  puerile  effort  was  then  made 
to  subjugate  Texas,  but  like  all  former  attempts,  it  ter- 
minated m  disaster  and  disgrace.  General  WoU  crossed 
tho  Rio  Grande  at  tlrfee  different  times,  in  tho  fall  of 
1842,  and  succeeded  in  capturing  a  Texan  court,  jury, 
lawyer,  witnesses,  and  a  few  spectators,  whom  ho  found 
in  session  at  San  Antonio  de  Bexar  ;  but  when  the  alarm 
was  given  that  the  Texan  troops  were  approaching,  tho 
marauding  parties  under  his  command  fled  across  the 
Rio  Grande,  as  if  some  avenging  demon  was  upon  their 
track. 

So  ended  the  attempt  of  Mexico  to  extend  her  supremo 
authority  over  the  soil  and  the  people  of  Texas  ;  and  in 
view  of  these  historical  facts,  how  can  it  be  contended  for 
a  moment,  that  she  had  tho  least  right  to  complain  of  the 
United  States,  for  entering  into  negotiations  for  the  ac- 
quisition of  Texas,  without  reference  to,  or  consultation 
with  her  1  Whatever  claims  she  might  originally  have 
had,  her  utter  inability  to  maintain  them  was  so  palpable, 
that  when  she  again  announced  her  intention  to  enforce 
them,  it  excited  the  ridicule  of  all  Christendom.  Let  it 
be  conceded  even,  that  Texas  was  a  revolted  state,  and 
not  a  seceder  from  a  confederacy  which  had  been  violent- 
ly ruptured  by  an  usurper.  She  had  defied  the  power 
of  tho  mother  country — she  had  achieved  her  indepoid- 
ence  j  and  the  fact  that  she  was  so  independent,  had 
6* 


ialLJil'.<'^i'W»W>iHiMWi 


180 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1844. 


been  duly  acknowledged  by  most  of  the  great  powers  of 
tlio  world.  Will  it  be  argued,  that  Mexico  should  her- 
self have  acknowledged  that  independence,  and  abandoned 
her  claims  1  Centuries  luight  liavo  elapsed, — this  might 
never  have  been  done, — and  yet  not  a  single  Mexican 
boldier  dared  to  set  his  foot  on  the  left  bank  of  the 
Rio  Grande  for  purposes  of  conquest.  Was  the  author- 
ity of  Cromwell  during  the  Protectorate,  or  of  the  Em- 
pire under  Napoleon,  ever  qu^  etioned,  because  the  dy- 
nasties which  they  had  overthr<,i  .vn  had  not  ackuowledgod 
that  authority '?  William  III.  ami  Louis  Philippe  were  at 
the  head  of  revolutionary  governments,  but  was  the  royal 
power  ever  gainsayed,  because  the  Stuarts  or  the  elder 
branch  of  the  Bourbon  family  had  not  surrendered  their 
claims  1  Who  ever  contended,  thivt  the  treaties  concluded 
by  Holland  for  half  a  century  prior  to  the  rccogmtion  of 
her  independento  by  Spain,  by  the  United  States  pre- 
vious to  1783,  or  by  the  South  -\merican  States  before 
they  were  acknowledged  to  be  independent  by  the  mother 
countries,  were  void  and  of  no  effect  ?  Did  Mexico,  in- 
deed, entertain  any  scruples  when  slio  entered  into  a 
treaty  with  the  United  States,  regulating  the  boundaries 
of  her  territory,  in  the  year  1828,  and  long  before  Spain 
recognized  her  independence  1 

It  was  not  only  desirable  that  Texas  should  be  annexed, 
in  the  opinion  of  Mr.  Polk,  but  ho  thought  it  should  bo 
done  immediately,  for  these  reasons :  While  the  treaty 
of  1844  was  under  consideration  in  the  Senate  of  the 
United  States,  all  the  oflScial  correspondence  between 
the  representatives  of  the  two  governments  was  most  un- 
advisedly made  public  ;  and  from  this  it  appeared,  that 


[1844. 

p^oat  powers  of 
:ico  should  hcr- 
,  aud  abandoned 
jed, — tbi8  miglit 
siugle  Mexican 
ift  bank  of  tbo 
Vas  the  author- 
or  of  the  Em- 
bccause  the  dy- 
jt  acknowledged 
Philippe  were  at 
it  was  the  royal 
rta  or  the  elder 
irrendered  their 
eatiea  concluded 
e  recognition  of 
ited  States  pre- 
II  States  before 
it  by  the  mother 
Did  Mexico,  in- 
entered  into  a 
;  the  boundaries 
ng  before  Spain 

)uld  be  annexed, 
gbt  it  should  bo 
V^hile  the  treaty 
e  Senate  of  the 
ndenco  between 
its  was  most  un- 
t  appeared,  that 


1844.] 


DESIGNS   OF   ENGLAND. 


la 


the  protracted  war  in  which  Texas  had  been  engaged,  had 
completely  exhausted  her  resources.    It  was  to  be  appre- 
hended, therefore,  if  her  overtures  for  annexation  should 
be  rejected— as  had  previously  been  the  case,  on  several 
occasions,  when  she  applied  for  admission  into  the  Ameri- 
can Union— that  the  fear  lest  the  unwise  disclosure  of  iicr 
weakness  would  invite  fresh  hostilities  on  the  part  of  Mexi- 
CO,  which  she  was  not  in  a  condition  to  resist,  would  induce 
her  to  seek  a  permanent  alliance  with  some  foreign  power. 
England  had  for  years  cast  a  longing  eye  upon  Texas, 
and  she  had  refused  to  unite  with  France  and  the  United 
States,  in  a  joint  effort  to  procure  the  recognition  of  the 
"ulependence  of  the  young  republic  by  Mexico.     From 
the  extensive  forests  of  live  oak  that  dotted  the  surface 
of  Texas,  she  hoped  to  procure  an  abundance  of  ship 
timber  for  the  uses  of  her  navy,  and  from  its  rich  interval 
lands  and  wide-spreading  prairies,  an  inexhaustible  sup- 
ply of  cotton  for  her  manufactories.     For  the  latter  she 
liad  long  been  dependent  on  the  United  States,  and  she 
<lesired  to  be  freed  from  that  condition  of  dependence.  She 
attempted  to  raise  cotton  in  Egypt,  in  Demcrara,  and  in 
India,  but  her  schemes  entin.'ly  failed ;  and  as  a  last  re- 
sort she  turned  her  attention  toward  Texas.     A  commer- 
cial treaty  was  formed  with  her,  soon  after  her  independ- 
ence  was  acknowledged  by  the  United  States,  under 
the  operation  of  which  the  exports  of  the  latter  to  Texas 
fell    off   over  three-fourths    within    the    short    space 
of  three  years.     It  may  be  doubted,  whether  England 
desired  to  bring  Texas  under  her  sway  as  a  colony,  but 
that  she  designed  to  make  her  .4  commercial  dependency  . 
is  apparent. 


132 


JAMES    KKOX   POLK. 


[1814. 


Moreover,  tin;  Britisli  jrovcrnment.  tlirouj^h  licr  Hpeul;- 
era  on  the  lloor  of  Piirliiuiifiit,*  aii.l  the  aLspatclus  aiul 
olFicial  corrc'»poii(l('UC(!  of  her  miiiitit(  r.t,!  avowed  a  ilesiio 
to  procure  tlio  abolition  of  doincHlu;  slavery  in  'I'exaH. 
The  object  which  hIic  had  in  view  was  obvious ;  and  thn 
safety  and  trant|uillity  «.f  the  Southern  States  of  iho  Union 
di-nianded  that  lier  eniisnaries  shuuld  not  bo  sulfered  to 
carry  out  their  Hcheiros,  and  that  her  autliority  shuuid 
not  bo  felt  or  acknowledjijod,  in  a  territory  lying  close 
upon  their  borders. 

When  the  Texas  qtiestion  W!»s  presented  in  this  man- 
ner to  the  American  prople,  public  men,  and  the  parties 
to  which -they  belon;i;('d,   arrii;ed  themselves   upon   oiu; 
side  or  the  other.     The  whi;^  party  at  the  nortli  oppos- 
ed the  annexation,  bectauMe,  ;i.s  they  alleged,  it  would  b;>^ 
an  act  of  bad  faith  toward  Mexico ;  because  the  di'bt  of 
Texas,  said  to  amount  to  ti  i»  or  twelve  millions  of  dollars, 
I  was  to  bo  assumed  by  the  United  States ;  and  because 
I  tliey  were  opposed  to  the  extension  or  increase  of  the 
glavo  territory.     At  the  south,  the  whigs  were  divided  -, 
one  portion  of  them  advocating  the  annexation,  and  the 
other  portion  concurring  with  their  party  friends  at  tlio 
'  north  upon  the  first  two  grounds  of  objection.     The  deni- 
;ocratic  party  generally  favored  the  annexation  ;    but  a 
'.  ^portion  of  the  party  at  the  north,  and  a  few  of  its  mem- 
.bers  residing  in  the  slave  states,  opposed  it— some  for 
'all  the  reasons  put  I'  .rth  by  the  whigs,  but  the  greater 
number  on  account  of  the  position  of  Texas  with  refer- 

♦  Conversation  between  Lord  Brougham   and  Lord  Aberdeen,  in  tlio 
House  of  Lords.— Londcin  Morning  Clironiolo,  August  li),  IS  13. 
'    t  Senate  Doo.  341,  1st  Soasion,  28tlf  Congress,  p.  27,  et  seq. 


[1844. 

ou;^h  her  njioiil;  • 
ilirtpatclics  iiud 
avowed  a  ilesiro 
kvery  iu  Texa^i. 
bvious ;  and  tlio 
ivtesot'  llio  Union 
i)t  1)0  suffered  to 
lutliority  should 
tory  lying  closo 

ited  ill  tlii.s  inan- 
and  the  parties 
lelves   upon   one 
ho  nortli  oppos- 
•ged,  it  would  bi' 
.•auHO  tlie  debt  of 
lillions  of  dollars, 
tes ;  and  because 
increase  of  the 
igs  were  divided ; 
lexation,  and  the 
ty  friends  at  the 
jtion.     The  deni- 
inexation  ;    but  a 
1  few  of  its  nieui- 
)sed  it — some  for 
,  but  the  greater 
'exas  with  rcfer- 

jord  Aberdeen,  in  tlio 
ii3t  li),  IS  13. 
27,  ot  seq. 


1844.J  TIIK    IIAI.flMOnK    rONVKNTION, 


188 


enco  to  Mexico.  ^^,•.  \'u„  Jl„ren  and  Mr.  Clay  agreed 
very  nearly  in  their  ..pinions.  JJ„th  expressed  themselves 
HI  favor  of  the  .ic,|uisiti..n  of  Tvkhh,  if  the  American 
people  dt-sired  it,  pn.vided,  however,  that  the  consent  of 
Mexico  shoul.l  bo  obtained,  or,  at  least,  that  .-fforts  should 
bo  made  to  procure  it ;  and  neither  of  thetn  objected  to 
th<.  aniu^xation  on  aecout.t  of  the  slavery  question  collat- 
erally connected  with  it.* 

In  the  midst  of  th(.  commotion  produced  by  the  agita- 
tion of  tho  Texas  .piestion,  the  national  democratic  con- 
vention assembled  at  Baltimore,  on  the  27th  day  of  May, 
1M4.     Until  tho  publication  of  his  Texas  letter,  Mr.' 
\  an  Huron  had  been  by  far  tho  most  prominent  candi- 
date ;  but  when  the  Convention  met,  L.-wis  Cass,  of 
•Miclii-an,    liichard   M.   Johnson,   of  Kentucky,   James 
Ihiohanan,  of  Ponnsylvania,,  and  I-evi  Woodbury,  of  Now 
Hampshire,  all  of  whom  wore  in  favor  of  the  immediate 
annexation  of  Texas,  were  supp,.rte.l  for  the  presidential 
nommation  by  their  respective  friends,  with  greater  or' 
h'ss  earnestness.      In.mediat.dy  after  tho  organization  of 
the  Conve;iti(m,  a  rule  was  adopted,  in  accordance  with 
the  prec.Mlents  established  by  the  conventions  of  1882  and 
IS.T,,  re(,uiring  a  v.,te  of  two-thirds  to  secure  a  nomina- 
tion.    Mr.  Van  Buren  received  a  majority  of. tho  votes 
on  the  first  ballot ;  seven  additional  ballotings  were  tlien 
had,  but  at  no  time  did  ho  receive  a  vote  of  two-thirds  ;', 
whereupon  his  name  was  withdrawn  by  tho  New  York 
delegation.     The  dnl..gates  opposed  to  his  nomination," 
after  the  first  ballot,  concentrated  thoir  strength  mainly 

•  Louorof  Afr.  V.n  U.^cn  to  Mr.  Ilammott.  April  20th,  lau.-Lettcr 
..f  .^rr.  Clay  fronx  l{„ie,sl. ;  to  Mr.  MiHer.  July  i,t.  l»M  ;  to  M.,«r,  Pe- 
lorn  iMi.l  .TnckH.Hi.  .Inly  27.  ISM.  .    t«^  ,  lo  iiiessrs.  ie- 


-•'ririiaii'ii'iiiV   r<rtYaa<i'' 


^l^irlil^i».i;il^1iy^^T^lilrlrW^^^;ll:.t/ra\a^^i■^^ 


134 


JAMES    KXOX    POLK. 


[181L 


upon  Mr.  Cass  ;  but  as  the  friends  of  Mr.  Van  Burcn 
numbered  more  than  one-third  of  the  Convention,  and 
were  irreconcilably  hostile  to  the  selection  of  any  of  the 
other  candidates  originally  proposed,  it  was  apparent  that 
no  nomination  could  bo  made  without  their  consent. 

The  name  of  Mr.  Polk  had  been  freely  spoken  of  in 
connection  with  the  vice-presidency,  and  when  the  con- 
vention found  itself  In  this  dilemma,  a  number  of  his 
friends  among  the  delegates  voted  for  him  on  the  ciglitli 
ballot  as  the  presidential  candidate.     All  conceded  his 
unquestioned  ability  and  talents,  and  the  mention  of  his 
name  operated  like  magic.     Harmony  was  instantly  re- 
stored.    On  the  ninth  ballot  he  received  nearly  all  the 
votes  of  the  members  of  the  Convention,  and  the  vote 
was  subsequently  made  unanimous.     The  nomination  for 
the  vice-presidency  was  tendered  with  great  unanimity  to 
Silas  Wright,  of  New  York,  a  distinguished  friend  of 
Mr.  Van  Buren,  but  it  was  declined;  and  Gcovgo  M. 
Dallas,  of  Pennsylvania,  Avas  then  put  in  nomination. 
The  closing  proceedings  of  the  Convention  were  mark(Ml 
by  great  good  feeling  and  enthusiasm,  and  when  the  mem- 
bers separated,  the  joy  and  satisfaction  that  filled  tlieir 
liearts,  was  manifested  by  their  words,  and  depicted  on 
.  their  countenances.  :    • 

The  nomination  of  Mr.  Poik  was  communicated  to  hlni 
bv  a  committee  appointed  by  the  Convention.  Unex- 
pected as  was  the  honor  thus  conferred  upon  him-,  h- 
would  have  been  more  than  mortal  had  he  decline'!  it. 
In  reply  to  the  committee  he  returned  the  subjouied  let- 
ter of  acceptance,  in  which  he  avowed  his  firm  determi- 
nation, in  the  event  of  his  election,  not  to  be  again  a  can- 
didate. 


^m^ 


■jjWrf 


[1841. 

Mr.  Van  Burcii 
[lonvention,  and 
n  of  any  of  tlie 
as  apparent  that 
jir  consent, 
cly  spoken  of  in 
1  when  the  con- 
\  number  of  his 
im  on  the  eighth 
Ul  conceded  liis 
e  mention  of  his 
vas  instantly  re- 
d  nearly  all  the 
n,  and  the  vote 
10  nomination  for 
•cat  unanimity  to 
;uished  friond  of 
and  Geovgc  ]\I. 
t  in  nomination, 
ion  were  marked 
id  when  the  niem- 
1  that  filled  their 
and  depicted  ou 

municated  to  hin» 
ivention.  Uncx- 
ed  upon  him-  ln" 
d  he  declined  it. 
;he  subjouR'd  let- 
his  firm  deterrai- 
;o  be  again  a  can- 


1844.] 


LKTTER    OF    ACCEPTANCE. 


135 


Cou'MiiiA,  Tonn.,  Juno  12,  1844. 

Genti.kmi'.n  : — I  liave  ImJ  the  honor  to  receive  your  letter 
of  the  2'Jth  ultimi).  informing  me  that  the  democratic  national 
I'oiiveiitioii,  then  assembled  at  IJallimoro,  had  designated  me, 
to  hr  the  candidate  of  the  democratic  party  for  Prtsident  of 
ilu;  United  States,  and  that  1  had  been  unanimously  nomi- 
na!»'(l  for  thai  utlici'. 

It  has  been  well  observed,  tiiat  tlie  otiice  of  President  of 
O.w  United  States  should  never  bo  sought  nor  declined.  1 
liave  never  sought  it,  nor  sliall  I  feid  iit  liberty  to  decline  it, 
if  conferred  upon  iw  by  tlie  voluntary  sutfragcs  of  my  fellow- 
citizens.  In  accepting  th(!  nomination,  I  am  deeply  impressed 
with  the  distinguished  honor  which  hits  been  conferred  upon 
me  by  my  republican  friends,  and  am  duly  s(!nsible  of  the 
,i.!;reat  and  miglity  responsibilities  which  must  ever  devolve  on 
.my  citizen  who  may  bo  called  to  fill  the  high  station  of  Presi- 
dent of  the  United  States. 

1  deem  the  present  U>  be  a  proper  occasion  to  declare,  that 
if  the  noaniiation  made  by  the  coiivention  shall  be  confirmed 
l)y  the  people,  and  result  in  my  election,  I  shall  enter  upon 
the  discharge  of  the  high  and  solemn  duties  of  the  office  with 
lli(!  settled  piupose  of  not  being  a  candidate  for  reelection. 
1  n  the  event  of  my  election,  it  shall  be  my  constant  Jiim,  by 
a  strict  adherence  to  the  old  republican  landmarks,  to  main- 
liiin  and  preserve  the  public  prosperity,  and  at  the  end  of 
four  years,  L  am  resolved  to  retire  to  private  life.  In  assum- 
ijig  this  position,  I  feel  that  I  not  only  impose  on  myself  a 
salutary  ivstraint,  but  that  I  take  the  most  effective  means  in 
my  power  of  enabling  the  democratic  party  to  make  a  frei' 
selection  of  a  successor  who  may  be  best-calculated  to  give 
effect  to  their  will,  and  guard  all  the  interests  of  our  beloved 
country. 

With  great  respect,  I  liave  the  honor  to  be, 
Your  ob't  servant, 

James  K.  Pols. 
To  Messrs.  Henry  Hubbard,  Wm.  H.  Roane,  &e.,  to. 


iitiifc'^ir 


a.i  nuirimstSi'M<fW€f''-'f- 


136 


JAMES   KNOX    POLK. 


[1844. 


Prior  to  its  atljournment,  the  Baltimore  Convention 
adopted  a  series  of  resolutions,  setting  fortli  the  princi- 
ples that  distinguished  them  as  a  party.  By  the  accept- 
ance of  their  nomination,  Mr.  Polk  signified  his  approba 
tion  of  tliose  resolutions,  and  they  are  therefore  insertea 
here : 


RESOLUTION'S    OF   THE    BALTIMOIIE    CONVENTION. 

Resolved,  That  the  American  Dcimx'i'acy  place  their  trust, 
not  in  factitious  symbols,  not  in  displ.iys  and  appeals  insult- 
\n)r  to  the  judgments  and  subveisivt!  ui'  tin;  intellect  of  the 
p(!ople,  but  Ml  a  clear  reliance  upon  the  intelligence,  the  pat- 
liotism,  and  the  discriniiniiting  justice  of  the  Americari 
masses. 

Resolved,  That  we  regard  this  as  a  distinctive  feature  oi 
our  political  creed,  wliicli  we  are  })roud  to  maintain  before 
the  world  as  the  great  moral  clement  in  a  form  of  govern- 
ment springing  from  and  upheld  by  the  popular  will ;  wo 
contrast  it  with  th((  creed  aiul  practice  of  Federalism,  under 
whatever  name  or  form,  which  seeks  to  palsy  the  will  vjf  the 
constituent,  and  which  conceives  no  im])ostui-e  too  mcistrous 
for  the  popular  credulity. 

Resolved,  tkerrfoir,  'I'hat,  entertaining  tluise  vit.vs,  the 
Democratic  party  of  this  Union,  through  tJ»eir  dekgates  as- 
sembled in  a  general  convention  of  the  States,  coming  to- 
gether in  a  spirit  of  concord,  of  devotion  to  the  doccrines  and 
faith  of  a  free  representative  government,  and  appealing  to 
their  fellow-citizens  for  tlie  rectitude  of  their  intentions,  renew 
and  reiissert  before  the  American  people,  the  declaration  of 
principles  avowed  by  them,  when  on  a  former  occasion,  in 
general  convention,  they  presented  their  candidates  for  the 
popular  suffrages : 

1.  That  the  Federal  Government  is  one  of  limited  powers, 
derived  solely  from  the  Constitution,  and  the  grants  of  power 
shown  therein,  ought  to  be  strictly  construed  by  all  the  do- 


^.£i-^ 


[1844. 

re  Convention 
rtli  the  princi- 
?y  the  accept- 
)(!  his  approba 
refore  insertea 


EJJTIOV. 

lace  their  trust, 
appeals  insult- 
intcilect  of  tlic 

igence,  the  pat- 
llie    Amencar. 

ctivc  feature  oi 
maintain  before 
'orm  of  govcrn- 
jpular  will ;  wo 
deralisin,  under 
the  will  uf  the 
0  too  moastrous 

lese  vifc.vs,  the 
ir  dekgiites  as- 
itcs,  ct»ming  to- 
le  doecrines  and 
id  appealing  to 
itentions,  renew 
B  declaration  of 
lor  occasion,  in 
ididates  for  the 

limited  powers, 
grants  of  power 
[  by  all  the  do- 


1844.  J 


RESOLUTIONS    OF   THE    CONVENTION. 


137 


•  partmonts  and  agents  of  the  government,  and  that  it  is  inex- 
pedient and  dangerous  to  exercise  doubtful  constitutional 
powers. 

'J.  That  the  Constitution  does  not  confer  upon  the  General 
(u)vernmcnt  the  power  to  commence  and  carry  on  a  general 
system  of  internal  improvement. 

3.  That  tlic  Constitution  does  not  confer  authority  upon 
the  Federal  (iovernment,  directly  or  indirectly,  tn  assume  tlie 
debts  of  ihe  sever.il  States,  contracted  for  local  internal  ini- 
pri)vemi'nts,  or  other  SUite  purposes;  nor  would  such  as^ 
sumption  be  just  and  expedient. 

4.  That  justice  and  sound  policy  forbid  the  Federal  Gov- 
f^rnmrnl  to  foster  one  branch  of  industry  to  the  detriment  of 
another,  or  to  cherish  the  interests  of  one  portion  to  the  inju- 
ry of  another  portion  of  our  common  country — that  every 
ritizen,  and  every  w^ction  of  the  country,  has  a  right  to  de- 
mand and  ins'st  upon  an  eqiuility  of  rights  and  privih'ges,  and 
ii  comphte  iuid  ample  protection  of  ju'isons  and  property 
tVom  domestic  \  iolence  or  foreign  aggression. 

5.  That  it  is  the  duty  of  every  branch  of  the  government 
to  enforce  -^nd  practice  the  most  rigid  economy  in  conducting 
our  public  affairs,  and  that  no  nu)re  revenue  ought  to  be 
raised  than  is  required  to  defray  the  necessary  expenses  of 
(lie  government. 

G.  That  Congi'ess  has  no  power  to  charter  a  National 
Bank  ;  that  we  believe  such  an  institution  one  of  deadly  iios- 
tility  to  the  best  interests  of  the  country,  dangerous  to  om- 
llepublican  institutions  and  the  liberties  of  the  people,  and 
calculated  to  place  the  business  of  the  country  within  the 
control  of  a  <ioncentratod  money  power,  and  above  the  laws 
and  the  will  of  the  people. 

7.  That  Congress  has  no  power  under  the  Constitution,  to 
interfere  with  or  control  the  domestic  institutions  of  the  sev- 
eral States,  and  that  such  States  are  the  sole  and  proper 
judges  of  everything  appertaining  to  their  own  affairs,  not 
prohibited  by  the  Constitution  ;  that  all  efforts  of  the  Abo- 


inir'-'FVjiijtf'iriilliiilnJli 


.a^i;!«mfgirff:--ifKSaKS»"i:.ir:^'.^r:ryr;W^' 


138 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1844 


litionists  or  others,  made  to  induce  Con.ress  to  intorforc  with 
tlie  question  of  slavery,  or  to  take  inciient  steps  in  relation 
thereto,  arc  calculated  to  lead  to  the  most  alarmin^,'  ;ind  dan- 
gerous consequences,  and  that  all  such  efforts  have  an  inevi- 
table tendency  to  diminish  the  happiiioss  of  the  peo])lo,  and 
endanger  the  stability  and  permanency  of  the  Union,  and 
ought  not  to  be  countenanced  by  any  friend  to  our  political 
institutions. 

8.  That  the  separation  of  the  moneys  of  the  Government 
from  banking  institutions,  is  indispensable  for  the  safety  of 
the  funds  of  the  Government,  and  the  rights  of  the  people. 

0.  That  the  liberal  principles  embodied  by  Jefferson  in  tho 
Declaration  of  Independence,  and  sanctioned  in  the  Consti- 
tution, which  makes  ours  the  land  of  Liberty,  and  the  a.s>uini 
of  the  oppressed  of  every  nation,  have  ever  been  cardinal 
principles  in  the  democratic  faitli ;  and  every  attempt  to 
abridge  the  present  privilege  of  becoming  citizens  and  the 
ownei-s  of  soil  among  us,  ought  to  be  resisted  with  the  same 
spirit  which  swept  the  alien  and  sedition  laws  from  our  stat- 
ute book. 

« 

Resolved,  That  the  proceeds  of  the  public  lands  ought  to 
be  sacredly  applied  to  the  national  objects  specified  in  the 
Constitution ;  and  that  we  are  opposed  to  the  law  lately 
adopted,  and  to  any  law  for  the  distribution  of  such  proceeds 
among  the  States,  as  alike  inexpedient  in  policy  and  repug- 
nant to  the  Constitution. 

Resolved,  That  we  are  decidedly  opposed  to  taking  from 
the  President  the  quahfied  Veto  power,  by  which  he  is 
enabled,  under  restrictions  and  responsibilities,  amply  suffi- 
cient to  guard  the  public  interest,  to  suspend  the  passage  of 
a  bill,  whose  merits  cannot  secure  the  approval  of  two-thirds 
of  the  Senate  and  House  of  Representatives,  until  the  judg- 
ment of  the  people  can  be  obtained  thereon,  and  which  has 
thrice  saved  the  American  people  from  the  corrupt  and  tyran- 
nical domination  of  a  Bank  of  the  United  States. 

Resolved,  That  our  title  to  the  whole  of  the  Territory  of 


srgarsryryi: 


[1844 

to  interfere  with 
steps  in  relation 
arniitij^  niul  dan- 
ts  have  an  inevi- 
the  peoj)le,  and 
the  Union,  and 
1  to  our  political 

the  Government 
'or  the  safety  of 
of  the  people. 
'  Jefferson  in  the 
d  in  the  Consti- 
,  and  the  ahyUinj 
sr  been  cardinal 
very  attempt  to 
citizens  and  the 
id  M'ith  the  same 
rs  from  our  stat- 

i  lands  ought  to 
specified  in  the 
the  law  lately 
of  such  proceeds 
olicy  and  repug- 

to  taking  from 
by  wliich  he  is 
ties,  amply  suffi- 
I  the  passage  of 
al  of  two-thirds 

until  the  judg- 
,  and  which  lias 
rrupt  and  tyran- 
ates. 
the  Territory  of 


184^1.] 


THE    KLFXTION. 


139 


Oregon  is  clear  and  unciucstionablc;  tliat  no  portion  of  tlio 
same  ought  to  be  ceded  to  England  or  any  other  power ;  liiat 
the  reoccupatioa  of  Oregon  and  tlu-  reiinuexalion  of  Texas  at 
liie  earliest  practicable  period,' are  great  American  measures, 
which  this  Conv(M)tion  recommends  to  llie  cordial  support  of 
the  Democracy  of  the  Union. 

Tlic  candidates  selected  by  the  whig  partv,  in  opposi- 
tion to  the  (Iciiiocratic  iioininoe-^,  were  ITenry  Chiy,  of 
Kentucky,  for  president,  and  Tiioodore  Freruigliuyt^en, 
of  New  Jersey,  for  vice-i.resio:  nt.  Mr.  Tyler,  the  then 
president,  was  also  put  in  nomination  for  tlie  presidcnev, 
by  a  convention  of  his  fricMids,  but  le;  subsetjnently  with- 
drew Iiis  name  and  gave  hi?  support  to  tlio  democratic 
ticket. 

Tlie  nomination  of  Mr.  Polk  was  not  only  ayoH  re- 
ceived ;  a  spirit  of  enthusiasm,  tliat  could  not  fail  to  tri- 
umph, was  instantly  aroused  in  his  favor.  As  General 
Jackson  had  received  the  appelhition  of  "  Old  Hi.kory," 
eo  that  of  "  Young  Hickory  "  was  applied  to  Mr.  Polk, 
wlio  resembled  his  distinguished  friend  of  tlie  Hermitn'>e 
in  his  firmness  and  indopendenco  of  character.  TJic 
election  was  conducted  with  great  spirit  and  animation. 
Mr.  Van  Buren  and  Mr.  Cass,  witli  the  otlier  candi- 
dates before  the  national  convention,  and  their  friends, 
cordially  supported  the  ticket.  Mass  meetings  were  held 
in  every  count}'-,  and  processions,  with  music  and  ban- 
ners, were  daily  seen  traversing  the  roads  and  by-ways 
of  the  interior,. or  threading  the  crowded  thoroughfares 
of  our  large  towns  and  cities. 

It  had  been  usual  to  subject  the  private  character  of 
candidates  to  a  scathing  ordeal.     This  is  one  of  the  evils, 


^M 


140 


JAMES   KNOX    POLK. 


[1844. 


among  the  many  advantages,  of  our  system  of  elections. 
But  the  purity  of  Mr.  Polk's  life  disarmed  scandal  of  her 
■weapons.  In  this  respect  he  was  unassailed  and  unas- 
sailable. 

This  political  contest,  however,  was  not  all  show  and 
display.  There  wore  great  and  important  principles  at 
stake,  and  they  were  in  general  frankly  avowed,  and  fairly 
and  honorably  discuaserl.  On  the  one  side,  the  whigs  sup- 
ported as  their  candidate,  the  father  and  champion  of 
the  American  system  ;  they  were  committed  in  favor  of 
a  national  bank,  a  protective  tariff,  the  distribution  of 
the  proceeds  of  the  public  lands,  and  an  extensive  system 
of  internal  impnivcmeuts  ;  and  they  opposed  the  annexa- 
tion of  Texas.  On  the  otlier  hand,  Mr.  Polk  had  sigiml- 
ized  the  connnencement  of  his  public  career,  by  his  oppo- 
sition to  the  system  of  measures  advocated  by  Mr.  Clay  ; 
and  the  democratic  party  were  opposed  to  the  incorpora- 
tion of  a  national  bank,  to  the  distribution  of  the  proceeds 
of  the  public  lands,  and  to  the  prosecution  by  the  general 
government  of  an  extensive  system  of  internal  impro\  e- 
ments  ;  they  were  in  favor  of  the  annexation  of  Texas, 
and  of  a  tariff  in  which  revenue  should  be  the  primary, 
and  protection  the  secondary  feature.  Individual  excep- 
tions there  were  to  this  general  statement  in  regard  to  the 
political  complexion  of  the  two  great  parties, — as  various 
shades  of  opinion  are  always  found  in  such  organizations, 
but  they  were  comparatively  few.  * 

In  Tennessee  the  election  was  exceedingly  close.  Mr. 
Polk  gained  largely  upon  the  democratic  vote  in  1840  ; 
his  majority  was  over  seven  hundred  in  Maury  county, 
being  three  hundred  more  than  at  the  gubernatorial  elec- 


[1844. 

m  of  elections. 
[  scandal  of  her 
liled  and  unas- 

)t  all  show  and 
it  principles  at 
wed,  and  fairly 
,  the  whigs  sup- 
d  champion  of 
;tcd  in  favor  of 
distribution  of 
ctensivc  system 
led  the  annexa- 
olk  had  signal- 
;r,  by  iiis  oppo- 
l  by  Mr.  Clay  ; 
I  the  incorpora- 
of  tlie  proceeds 
by  the  general 
ernal  iinprove- 
tion  of  Texns, 
»e  the  primary, 
dividual  excep- 
n  regard  to  the 
es, — as  various 
1  organizations, 

rly  close.  Mr. 
vote  in  1840  ; 
Maury  county, 
ernatorial  elec- 


~~ra 


I844.J 


RECEPTION    AT   NASHVILLE. 


141 


tion  of  the  previous  year  ;  but  the  Clay  electoral  ticket 
succeeded  in  the  state  by  the  diminutive  majority  of  one 
hundred  and  twenty-four.  In  the  electoral  eolU-ges,  Mr. 
Polk  received  one  hundred  and  seventy  votes,  and  Mr. 
Clay  one  hundred  and  five.*  The  majority  of  Mr.  Polk 
over  his  distinguished  competitor,  on  the  popular  vote, 
was  about  forty  thousand,  exclusive  of  the  vote  of  South 
Carolina,  wlnsc  electors  .-ire  chosen  by  the  state  legisla- 
ture. The  tocai  vote  was  a  little  less  tlian  two  million 
seven  hundred  thousand. 

On  the  28th  of  November — the  result  of  the  election 
being  then  known — Mr.  Polk  visited  NaKhville,  and  Avas 
honored  with  a  public  reception  by  his  democratic  friends, 
together  •with  a  nundier  of  their  opjwnents  in  the  late 
contest,  -who  clieerfully  united  with  tliem  in  paying  due 
honors  to  the  President  elect  of  tlie  people's  choice.  A 
brilliant  civic  and  military  procession  escorted  him  to 
the  public  square  in  front  of  the  Court-house,  where  ho 
was  addressed  by  the  Hon.  A.  O.  P.  Nicholson,  on  behalf 
of  the  large  assembly,  that  had  collected  to  welcome  him 
to  the  seat  of  government.  To  the  address  of  Mr.  Nich- 
olson, congratulating  him  on  his  success,  and  assuring 
him  of  the  high  respect  and  admiration  entertained  for 
his  intellectual  capacity  and  his  private  virtues  by  the 
people  of  Tennessee,  to  whom  he  had  been  so  long  en- 
deared, Mr.  Polk  returned  the  following  reply,  not  more 

*  Mr.  Polk  received  the  electoral  votes  of  Maine,  Xcw  Hninpshire,  New 
York,  Pennsylvania,  Virginia,  .South  Carolina,  Georgia,  Ahibania,  Mis- 
Bidi^ippi,  Louisiana,  Michigan,  Indiana,  Illinois,  Missouri,  and  Arkansas ; 
and  Mr.  Clay  those  of  Vermont,  ^Massachusetts,  Khode  I.^land,  Connecti- 
cut, New  Jersey,  Delaware,  Maryland,  North  Carolina,  Tennessee,  Ken- 
tacky,  and  Ohio. 


mpiip«wwr" 


142 


JAMES    KNOX   POLK. 


[1844. 


lionoi'iible  to  his  talents  than  to  his  kindness  and  generos- 
ity of  heart : 

"  I  return  to  you,  sir,  and  to  my  fullow-citizcns,  whoso 
organ  you  are,  my  sincere  und  unfcigni'd  thanks  for  tiiis  maii- 
ift'slation  of  tlie  popular  re<;ard  and  confidence,  and  for  tliu 
coiiy-ratulations  wiiich  you  have  been  pleased  to  express  lo 
me,  upon  the  termination  and  result  of  the  late  political  con- 
test. I  am  fully  sensible,  that  these  congratulations  are  not, 
and  cannot  be  personal  to  myself.  It  is  tiio  eminent  success 
of  our  common  principles  which  has  spread  such  general  joy 
over  the  land.  The  pohticid  struggle  through  whicli  the 
country  has  just  passed  has  been  deeply  exciting.  Extraor- 
dinary causes  have  existed  to  make  it  so.  It  has  terminated 
— it  is  now  over — and  I  sincerely  hope  and  believe,  has  been 
decide  '.  by  the  sober  and  settled  judgment  of  the  American 
people. 

"  In  exchanging  mutual  congratulations  witii  each  other 
npon  the  result  of  tlie  late  election,  the  Democratic  party 
should  remember,  in  calmly  reviewing  the  contest,  that  tiie 
pBrtion  of  our  fellow-citizens  Avho  have  differed  with  us  in 
opinion  have  equal  political  rights  with  ourselves ;  that  mi- 
norities as  well  as  majiDritios  are  entitled  lo  the  full  and  free 
exercise  of  all  their  opinions  and  judgments,  and  that  tlie 
rights  of  all,  whether  of  minorities  or  majorities,  as  such,  are 
entitled  to  equal  respect  and  regard. 

"  In  rejoicing,  therefore,  over  the  success  of  the  Demo- 
cratic party,  and  of  their  principles,  in  the  late  election,  it 
sliould  be  in  no  spirit  of  exultation  over  the  defeat  of  our  op- 
ponents ;  but  it  should  be  because,  as  we  honestly  believe, 
our  principles  and  policy  are  better  calculated  than  theirs  to 
promote  the  true  interests  of  the  whole  country. 

"  In  the  political  position  in  which  I  have  been  placed,  by 
the  voluntaiy  and  unsought  suffrages  of  my  fellow-citizens,  it 
will  become  my  duty,  as  it  will  be  my  pleasure,  faithfully  and 


1 


[1844. 
and  gcneros- 


lilizcns,  whoso 
s  for  this  niiiii- 
e,  and  for  tho 
I  to  (ixpross  to 
e  political  con- 
liitioiis  aro  not, 
iniiieiit  success 
uh  general  joy 
gh  which  tlio 
mr.  Exlnior- 
has  terminated 
lievc,  has  been 
'  the  American 

til  each  otlicr 
nocratic  l)arty 
ntest,  that  tl>e 
ed  Avith  lis  in 
ilves ;  that  mi- 
e  full  and  free 
,  and  that  tho 
is,  as  such,  are 

of  tho  Demo- 
late  election,  it 
ifeat  of  our  op- 
mestly  believe, 
than  theirs  to 
y. 

•een  placed,  by 
llow-citizens,  it 
!,  faithfully  and 


1845.J 


JOURNfcV    TO    WASHINGTON. 


148 


truly  to  represent,  in  the  Executive  department  of  the  gov- 
ernment, the  principles  and  policy  of  the  great  i)arty  of  tiio 
country  who  have  elected  me  to  it ;  but  at  the  same  time,  it 
is  proper  to  declare,  that  I  shall  not  regard  myself  as  the 
representative  of  a  party  only,  but  of  the  whole  people  of 
tlie  United  States ;  and,  I  trust,  that  the  future  iioliey  of  tiie 
government  may  be  such,  as  to  secure  tho  iiappiness  and 
prosperity  of  all,  without  distinction  of  party." 

In  tlic  evening  of  the  28th,  a  number  of  public  and  pri- 
vate houses  were  illuminated.  Hilarity  and  glco  pre- 
vailed on  every  hand ;  joy  sparkled  in  every  eye  and 
beamed  on  every  countenance  ;  and  the  festivities  of  the 
day  were  protracted  till  a  late  hour. 

Mr.  Polk  left  his  home  in  'reiinessee,  on  his  way  to 
Washington,  toward  the  latter  part  of  January,  1845. 
lie  was  accompanied  on  his  journey  by  Mrs.  Polk,  and 
several  personal  friends.  On  tlie  i31st  instant,  he  had  a 
long  private  interview  at  tho  Hermitage,  with  his  vener- 
ble  friend,  Andrew  Jackson.  Tho  leave-taking  was  af- 
fectionate and  impressive,  for  each  felt  conscious,  that,  in 
all  probabi'ity,  it  was  a  farewell  forever.  It  was  the 
son,  in  the  pride  of  manhood,  going  forth  to  fulfil  his 
hii^li  destiny,  from  the  threshold  of  his  political  godfa- 
ther, whose  trembling  Jips,  palsied  with  the  touch  of  age, 
could  scarce  invoke  tho  benediction  which  his  heart 
■would  prompt.  lOre  another  harvest  moon  shed  its  holy 
li'ilit  upon  a  ^pot  hallowed  by  so  many  memories  and  as- 
sociations, the  •'  h'ro  of  New  Orleans  "  and  tho  "  <lc- 
feiider  of  the  Constitution  "  slept  that  sleep  which  knows 
no  waking.  A  few  years  passed, — and  he  to  whom  that 
parting  blessini;  liad   Ijeen  given,  with  so  fair  and  bright 


144 


JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


fl846. 


a  promise  of  a  lon<T  lifi;  before  him,  liad  also  joined  the 
assembly  of  tlic  dead.  Truly,  the  realities  of  History 
are  sometimes  stranger  far  than  the  wildest  creations  of 
Fiction ! 

On  the  latof  February,  Mr.  Polk  and  suite  left  Nash- 
ville,  and  proceeded  ns  rapidly  as  possible,  considering 
the  demonstrations  of  respect  with  which  ho  was  every- 
where received  on  his  route,  to  the  scat  of  government  of 
the  nation.  For  all  who  approached  him — whatever 
might  bo  the  condition  in  life  or  occupation,  tho  appear- 
ance or  dress,  of  the  individual — he  had  a  kind  word  and 
friendly  greeting.  When  the  steamboat,  on  which  he 
proceeded  up  tlie  Ohio  river,  stopped  at  Jeifersonville, 
Indiana,  "  a  plain-looking  man  came  on  board,"  said  a 
passenger  on  tii<'  steajner,  "  who,  fronj  the  soiled  and 
coarse  condition  of  his  dress,  seemed  just  to  have  left  the 
plongh  handles,  or  spade,  in  the  field.  He  pressed  for- 
ward through  the  saloon  of  the  boat,  to  where  the  Presi- 
dent was  standing,  in  conversation  Avith  a  circle  of  gen- 
tlemen, tlirougli  which  he  thrust  himself,  making  directly 
for  the  President,  and  offering  his  hand,  which  was  re- 
ceived with  cordial  good  will.  Says  tho  farmer,  '  How 
do  you  do,  Colonel '?  I  am  glad  to  see  you.  I  am  a 
stwng  democrat,  and  did  all  I  could  for  you.  I  am  the 
father  of  tAventy-six  children,  who  were  all  for  A)//r, 
Dili  Ins,  and  Texits  I^  Colonel  Polk  responded  with  a 
sniile,  saying,  he  was  '  happy  to  make  his  acquaintance, 
fe'eliiig  assured  that  he  deserved  well  of  his  country,  if 
for  no  other  reason  than  because  he  was  the  father  of  so 
large  a  republican  family." 

The  President  elect  Avith  his  party  arrived  at  Wash- 


1^ 


I 


[1846. 

!0  joined  tlio 

s  of  History 

creations  of 

itc  loft  Niisli- 
,  considering 
10  was  every- 
;ovornnicnt  of 
m — whatever 
I  the  appear- 
ind  word  and 
on  which  he 
Jeifersonville, 
)ard,"  said  a 
c  soiled  and 
I  have  left  tlie 
;  presstiod  for- 
.TC  the  Presi- 
circle  of  gen- 
vking  directly 
hich  was  ve- 
tirmer,  *  How 
•oil.  I  am  a 
u.  I  am  the 
all  for  Polk, 
onded  with  a 
acquaintance, 
is  country,  if 
e  father  of  so 

}d  at  Wash- 


1846.J 


HIS    INAUGURATION. 


145 


mgton  on  the  liUh  of  Fehriiary,  and  was  immediately 
waited  upon  hy  a  Committee  of  the  two  Houses  of  Con- 
gress, who  informed  him  that  the  returns  from  the  electo- 
ral colleges  had  hoen  opened,  and  the  hallots  counted,  on 
the  previous  day  ;  and  that  ho  had  been  declared  duly 
elected  I'resident  of  the  United  States.  Ho  thereupon 
signified  his  acceptance  of  the  office  to  which  he  had  been 
chosen  by  the  people,  and  desired  tho  Committee  to  con- 
vey to  Congress  his  assurances,  that  "  in  executing  tho 
responsible  duties  which  would  devolve  upon  him,  it  would 
be  his  anxious  desire  to  maintain  the  honor  and  promoto 
the  welfare  of  tho  country."    , 

On  the  4th  day  of  March,  18 15,  Mr.  Polk  was  inau- 
gurated President  of  the  United  States.  An  immense 
concourse  of  people  assoiuLled  at  Washington — every 
quarter  of  the  Union  being  well  represented— to  witness 
the  impo.,ing  ceremony.  The  morning  was  wet  and  low- 
ery  ;  but  llio  spirits  of  the  spectators  were  proof  against 
the  unfavorable  influences  of  the  weather.  All  parties 
joined  in  the  appropriate  observance  of  the  day,  and  tho 
national  standard  floated  proudly  from  the  flagstaffs  of 
both  democrats  and  whigs. 

About  eleven  o'clock  in  tho  forenoon,  tho  procession 
moved  from  the  quarters  of  tho  President  elect,  at  Cole- 
miiii's  Hotel— Mr.  Polk  and  his  predecessor,  Mr.  Tyler, 
riding  together  in  an  open  carriage.  Arrived  at  the  cap- 
itol,  the  President  elect  and  tho  ex-president  entered  the 
Senate  Chamber.  Hero  a  procession  was  formed,  when 
they  proceeded  to  the  platform  on  the  east  front  of  the 
capitol,  from  which  Mr.  Polk  delivered  his  inaugural  ad- 
dress : 


lie 


JAMI'.S    KNOX    PUI.K. 


[1W5. 


IJfAUOfllAI.     ADDRKSHl.  » 

FnM.ow-r!iTi/.KNs  :— Witlioiit  sDlicitiitiDiifmmv  part,  Tlmvo 
hi'on  clinson  t)y  tlif  iVrc  ami  vuluntnry  sullVaijcH  of  inv  roiin- 
tivmcn  to  tlm  most  lionorahlo  nml  most  responsible  olTico  on 
cailli.  I  am  dci'plv  iinprrssi'd  with  i,'nititu(lc  for  tlio  ooiiti- 
dt'Mci'  reposed  in  me.  Honored  w'aU  iliis  distiiii{uislie(l  con- 
Kideraliou  lit  iin  earlier  period  of  liti'  than  any  of  my  prede- 
cessors, I  cannot  disyjuise  tiie  dillideneo  witii  wiiidi  I  am 
about  to  enter  on  tlu'  disenarLfe  of  my  ofllcial  duties. 

If  tl>e  nmre  ai^ed  and  cxperienci'd  men  wiiu  have  tilled  th(? 
(ifTioe  of  President  of  the  I'niled  States,  even  in  the  infancy 
of  till'  llc'publie,  dlstruslcd  ihelr  ability  to  discharife  the  du- 
ties! of  that  exalted  slution,  wh  a  ou':,'ht  not  to  I  •  the  appre- 
hensions of  one  s(j  much  youni^er  and  less  endo\^ed,  now  that 
our  domain  extends  from  ocean  to  ocean,  thai  our  people 
liavo  so  greatly  incieascd  in  numbcr.s,  and  at  u  lime  when  so 
jrreat  diversity  of  opinion  prevail-  in  regard  to  the  principles 
and  policy  which  should  characlen/.(!  the;  ailministratiou  of 
our  Oovernmcnt?  Wi'll  may  the  boldest  fear,  and  the  wisest 
tremble,  when  incurring;  responsibilities  on  which  may  depend 
our  country's  peace  and  prosperity,  and,  in  some  degree,  the 
hopes  and  happiness  f)f  the  whole  human  family. 

In  assuminL(  resjxiasibilities  so  vast,  I  fervently  invoke  the 
aid  of  the  Almighty  Ituler  of  the  Universe,  in  whose  hanils 
are  tlu;  dcsliuie.s  of  nali.ms  and  of  iiv -ii.  to  guard  this  heaven- 
favored  land  against  the  mischici'  \vlii(!h,  without  His  gui- 
(lince,  might  aris(>  fnun  an  unwi-'  jmblio  policy.  With  a 
liriu  relianc(>  \ijion  the  wisdom  of  '  tninipotence  to  sustain  and 
direct  mc  in  the  [la'h  of  duty  wi  '  I  am  appointed  to  pur- 
sue, I  stand  in  the  |]resence.  of  tli.  assembled  multitude  of 
my  countrymen,  to  tske  upon  nysclf  the  solemn  obligation, 
"  to  the  best  of  my  ability,  to  pieserve.  to  protect,  and  defend 
the  Constitution  of  the  Unitixl  States." 


[1S45. 


nv  pnrt,  T  Imvn 
'H  of  my  <'inin- 
isiblo  olTicc  on 

for  (ho  eoiili- 
iiiijuislicd  coii- 

of  my  prccli'- 
I  wliicli  [  mil 
(liuii's. 

liiivo  fillpd  tlio 
in  tlie  infimcy 
filiar^c  tlii^  (lu- 

I  •  lilt!  iippni- 
)v  I'd,  now  tlmt 
;ii,  our  j)co|)l(» 
I  time  wIk'u  so 
I  the  principles 
ministnition  uf 
and  the  \vis('s(, 
ill  may  depend 
me  degree,  tlu! 
liy. 

illy  invoke  tlie 
n  whose  hands 
rd  this  heaveii- 
Lhout  His  i^'ui- 
slicy.     With  a 

to  sustain  and 
loinled  to  pur- 
i  multitude  of 
3mn  obligation, 
L'Ct,  and  defend 


1846.1 


INAUUURAL   ADDRESS. 


14T 


A  coneiKO  enumeration  of  the  principles  wliieli  will  guido 
me  in  the  administration  policy  of  the  government,  is  not  only 
in  accordance  with  the  examples  Het  mo  by  all  my  predeccH. 
sors,  but  is  eminently  befitting  the  occasion. 

The  Conittitution  iLself,  plainly  written  as  it  is,  the  safe- 
guard  of  our  fedorntivo  comiwct,  the  oftsjiring  of  conces- 
sion and  compromise,  binding  together  in  the  bonds  of  peace 
and  union  this  great  and  increasing  family  of  free  and  indo- 
jieiident  States,  will  be  the  chart  by  which  1  shall  be  di- 
rected. 

It  will  be  my  first  care  to  administer  the  government  in 
the  true  spirit  of  that  instrument,  and  to  assume  no  powers 
not  expressly  granted  or  clearly  implied  in  its  terms.  Tho 
government  of  the  United  States  is  one  of  delegated  and 
limited  powers,  and  it  is  by  a  strict  adherence  to  the  clearly 
granted  powers,  and  by  abstaining  from  the  exercise  of  doubt- 
ful or  unauthorised  iiniilied  powers,  that  we  have  the  only 
sure  guaranty  against  the  recurren.'e  of  those  unfortunate 
collisions  between  the  I'Vderal  and  State  authorities,  wliicli 
have  occasionally  so  much  disturbed  the  harmony  of  our 
system,  and  even  threatened  the  perpetuity  of  our  glorious 
Union. 

"  To  the  States  respectively,  or  to  the  people,"  have  been 
reserved  "  the  powers  not  delegated  to  the  United  States  by 
the  constitution,  nor  prohibited  by  it  to  the  States."  Each 
State  is  a  complete  sovereignty  within  the  sphere  of  its  n;- 
served  powers.  The  government  of  the  Union,  acting  within 
the  sphere  of  its  delegated  authority,  is  also  a  complete  sov- 
ereignty. While  the  general  government  should  abstain  from 
the  exercise  of  authority  not  clearly  delegated  to  it,  the  States 
.should  be  equally  careful  that,  in  the  maintenance  of  their 
rights,  they  do  not  overstep  the  limits  of  powers  reserved  to 
them.  One  of  the  most  distinguished  of  my  predecessors  at- 
tached desei-ved  importance  to  "  the  support  of  the  State 
governments  in  all  their  rights,  ns  the  most  competent  ad- 


T 


148 


JAMES  KNOX  POLK. 


[1815. 


nVnistration  for  our  domestic  concerns,  and  the  surest  bulwml< 
a..unst  anti-republicaa  t.^udcncies ;"  and  to  the.  "  preservation 
of  the  general  government  in  its  whole  constitutional  v,iri>r,  as 
the  sheet-anchor  of  our  peace  at  home,  and  safety  abro^id. 

To  the  government  of  the  United  States  has  been  entrust- 
ed the  exclusive  management  of  our  foreign  athurs      ^eyond 
that,  it  ^vields  a  few  general  enumerated  powers      It  doc's  net 
force  reform  on  the  States.     It  leaves  individuals  over  wIumu 
it  casts  its  protecting  influence,  entirely  free  to  improve  their 
own  condition  by  the  legitimate  exercise  of  all  their  .n.nlr, 
and  physical  powers.     It  is  a  common  protector  of  each  and 
all  the  States  ;  of  every  man  who  lives  upon  our  soil,  who  her 
of  naUve  or  foreign  birth  ;  of  every  religious  sect,  n.     uu- 
worship  of  the  Almighty  according  to  the  dictates  ol  then 
own  conscience  ;  of  every  shade  of  opinion,  and  the  most  t.ee 
inquiry  ;  of  every  art,  trade,  and  occupation,  consistent  with 
the  laws  of  the  States.     And  we  rejoice  in  the  general  happi- 
ness, prosperity  and  advancement  of  our  country,  winch  have 
been  the  offspring  of  freedom  and  not  of  power. 

The  most  admirable  and  wisest  system  of  well-regulated 
self-government  among  men,  ever  devised  by  human  minds 
has  been  tested  by  its  successful  operation  for  more  than  halt 
a  century;  and,   if  preserved  from  the  usurpations  of  the 
federal  government  on  the  one  hand  ;  and  the  exercise  by   he 
States  of  power  not  reserved  to  them  on  the  other,  w.l ,  1 
fervently  hope  and  believe,  endure  for  ages  to  come,  and  dis- 
pense the  blessings  of  civil  and  religious  liberty  to  distant, 
generations.     To  oflect  objects  so  dear  to  every  pivtnot,  i 
shall  devote  myself  witlr  anxious  solicitude.     It  will  be  my 
desire  to  guard  against  that  most  fruitful  source  of  danger  to 
the  harmonious  action  of  our  system,  which  consists  m  sub- 
stituting the  mere  discretion  and  caprice  of  the  executive,  or 
of  majorities  in  the  legislative  department  of  »he  government, 
for  powers  which  have  been  withheld  from  tlic  federal  gov- 
ernment by  the  constitution.     By  the  theory  of  our  govern- 


[1845. 

urcst  bulwavl; 
"  preservation 
ional  viiror,  as 
3ty  abroad." 
been  entrust- 
lirs.  Ijcyond 
;.  It  docs  not 
lis  over  whom 

improve  llicir 
il  their  mcnlnl 
.r  of  cacli  and 
r  soil,  whethiT 

sect,  in  tbfii' 
ictates  of  thuir 
1  the  most  free 
consistent  witii 
general  liappi- 
,ry,  which  luive 
er. 

well-regulated 

human  minds, 

more  than  lialf 
n-pations  of  tlie 

exercise  by  the 
he  other,  will,  I 
)  come,  and  dis- 
)erty  to .  distant 
every  patriot,  1 

It  will  be  my 
irce  of  danger  to 

consists  in  sub- 
the  executive,  or 
the  government, 
tlie  federal  gov- 
y  of  our  govcrn- 


1845.J 


INAUGURAL    ADDRESS. 


149 


mont.  majoritio.-^  rule  ;  I,ut  (his  rigiit  is  not  an  arbitrary  orim- 
liinKed  (M.e.  It  is  a  right  to  be  exercised  in  subordination  to 
the  constitution,  and  in  conformity  to  it.  One  great  object  of 
tlie  .■  mstitution  was  to  restrain  majorities  fmm  oppressitig 
mimr.Aw^,  or  encroaching  upon  their  just  rights.  .Minorities 
have  a  iglit  to  api)eal  t<i  the  constitution,  as  a  sliieid  against 
such  u;i|M'essioii.  ° 

That  !:.<■  blessings  (,f  liberty  whicli  our  constitution  secures 
may  he  .■ajoycd  alike  by  minorities  and  majorities,  the  e.xecu- 
tive  lias  been  wisely  invested  with  a  qualified  veto  upon  the 
acts  of  (lie  legislature.  It  is  u  negative  p,)wer,  and  is  conser- 
vative in  Its  eiiaracter.  It  arrests  for  tiie  time  hasty,  incon- 
siderate, or  unconstitutional  legislation  ;  invites  reconsidera- 
tion, and  transfers  ipiestions  at  issiu;  between  the  legislative 
.and  executive  departments  to  tlie  tribunal  of  the  "people. 
Like  all  other  powers,  it  is  subject  to  be  abused.  When  ju- 
diciously and  properly  exercised,  tlie  constitution  itself  may 
be  saved  from  infraction,  and  the  rights  of  all  preserved  and 
protected. 

The  inestimable  value  of  our  federal  Union  is  felt  and  ac- 
knowledged by  all.     I!y  this  system  of  united  and  confedera- 
ted States,  our  people  are  permitted,  collectively  and  indi- 
vidually, to  seek  their  o\vn happiness  in  their  own  way;  and 
the  consequences  have  been  most  auspicious.    Since  the  Union 
was  formed,  tlie  number  of  States  has  increased  from  tliir- 
teen  to  twenty-eight ;  two  of  these  liavc  taken  their  position 
as  members  of  tlie  confederacy  witliin  the  last  week.     Our 
population  has  increased  from  tlirec  to  twenty  millions.    New 
communities  and  States  are  seeking  protection  under  its  ^o-is 
and  multitudes  from  the  Old  World  are  flocking  to  our  shores 
to  participate  in  its  blessings.     Beneath  its  benign  sway,  peace 
and  prosperity  prevail.     Freed  from  the  burdens  and  miseries 
of  war,  our  trade  and  intercourse  have  extended  throughout 
the  world.     Mind,  no  longer  tasked  in  devising  means  to  ac- 
complish or  resist  schemes  of  ambition,  usurpation,  or  con- 


150 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[184^ 


1,;«  f'lrultios  and  powers,  and  tlic  c.ip.ii-ii} 

Ins  t,icu  utb  an     F  announce  its  uncu 

S:;r»dSUt:i  ...a  pc*c.  rreo.„«,  .,<  opinion,,,. - 

'"'Sr''r  oTirb«»g,  -.* .  „«  .»pp.v  .»;; 

,,  f.!w,U'nion     To  pcrpclunto  tlKm,  it  »  ow  »»«<•'' 

by  our  M<-i...  I  "  ""■  P   ,!^  ,„,.      tail,  to  I..C  adiLCVc- 

™L7;r  ;  1  id  ;»  l.»nas:„ode,  ...»  pro.cc,io„  of. 
ganization  of  society,  ^^oulcl  do  equ  . 

'■"°.  ^"Z^lk"  vo:S  t  nt^ish  the  L  of  liberty  »bic., 
:„ tr  linltX  .,e»r.s°o(  .rappy  -on.  »d  inv,.» 
'SN.nms  imitate  our  example.     It  ii^^ 

'''  t  tC  a.:l  "«  1-tted  in  the  administration 
7t^ r^iuetlim  remember  that  -thing  — 
n  ho  lerfecf  and  that  under  no  other  system  of  goNe.n- 
ment  reveild  by  Heaven,  or  devised  by  man.  has  reason 
wn  a  owed  so  L  and  broad  a  scope  to  combat  error. 
H.fre  sword  of  despots  proved  to  be  a  safer  or  surer  in- 

pier  abode  for  our  swarming  milhons  than  th«y  now  i 

^r  t  9     Every  lover  of  his  country  must  shuddei  at  tuo 

jLght  of  rpisibiUty  of  its  dissolution,  and  will  be  ready 


ri845. 

,n  (levolop'mt; 
turc  to  niiiiis- 
nce  its  iiivcu 
3  accl)mpli^H 
•ith  the  riglits 
of  rank  have 
•  adopted,  are 
ro  entitled  to 
!xists  between 
pinion  is  guav- 

ar  happy  land 
t,  is  our  sacred 
to  the  athievt'- 
3  protection  of 
,  sincB  the  or- 
ocity  to  that  of 
ic  would  over- 
which  protects 
the  progress  of 
her  in  anarchy 
jf  hberty  which 
ions,  and  invites 
xamplc.     If  ho 
c  administration 
nothing  human 
item  of  govern- 
nan,  has  reason 
mbat  error, 
safer  or  surer  in- 
ghtened  reason  ? 
his  Union  a  hap- 
i«y  now  have  un- 
shudder  at  the 
rnd  will  be  ready 


I  ■lip.tti'ffi'ri. 


1845.  j 


INAUGURAL    ADDRESS. 


151 


to  adopt  the  jiatriotic  sentiment:  "Our  federal  Union— it 
must  he  preserved."  To  preserve  it,  the  compromise  whicli 
idone  enabled  our  fathers  to  form  a  common  constitution  for 
the  government  and  protection  of  so  many  States,  and  dis- 
tinct communities,  of  such  diversified  habits,  interests  and  do- 
mestic institutions,  must  be  sacredly  and  religiously  observed. 
Any  attempt  to  disturb  or  destroy  these  compromises,  being 
terms  of  the  compact  of  Union,  can  lead  to  none  other  than 
the  most  ruinous  and  disastrous  consequences. 

It  is  a  source  of  deep  regret  that,  in  some  sections  of  oin- 
country,  misguided  persons  have  occasionally  indulged  in 
s^cliemes  and  agitations,  whose  object  is  tlie  destruction  of 
domestic  institutions  existing  in  other  sections — institutions 
which  existed  at  the  adoption  of  tiie  constitution,  and  were 
recognized  and  protected  by  it.  All  must  see  that  if  it  were 
])<)ssible  for  them  to  be  successful  in  attaining  tlieir  object, 
the  dissohition  of  the  Union,  and  a  consequent  destruction  of 
our  liappv  form  of  government,  must  speedily  follow. 

I  am  happy  to  believe,  that  at  eveiy  period  of  our  exist- 
ence as  a  nation,  tlu  re  ';ns  exisied,  mm'!  continues  to  exist, 
anion"-  the  trre.'it  ma  ■■>  of  our  iieople,  a  devotion  to  the  Union 
of  the  States,  which  wl  1  shield  and  pi-otect  it  against  the 
moral  treason  of  any  wno  would  seriou>-ly  contemplate  its 
desiruction.  To  secure  a  continuance  of  that  devotion,  the 
compromises  of  the  constitution  must  not  only  be  preserved, 
but  sectional  jealousies  and  iiearlhurnings  must,  be  disconii- 
tenanced  ;  and  all  should  renu'ml)"r  that  they  are  members 
of  file  s.ame  political  family,  having  a  common  destiny.  To 
increase  the  attachment  of  our  p.eople  to  the  Union,  our  laws 
should  be  just.  Any  jiolicy  whicli  slndl  tend  to  favor  mo- 
nopolies, or  the  peculiar  int(jrests  of  sections  or  classes,  must 
ojii'rato  to  the  prejudice  of  tlu^  interests  of  their  fellow-citi- 
zens, and  should  he  avoided.  If  the  compromises  of  the  con- 
stitution be  jji-eserved, -if  seclioual  jealousies  and  heartburn- 
ings be  discountenanced,  -if  our  b'us  be  ju'jt,  and  the  gov- 


152 


JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


[1845. 


i 


crnment  be  practiciilly  administered  strictly  witliin  the  ^mits 
of  power  prescribed  to  it,— we  may  discard  all  apprehensions 
for  the  safety  of  the  Union. 

With  these  views  of  the  nature,  character  and  objects  of 
tlie  government,  and  the  value  of  tlie  Union,  I  shall  steadily 
oppose  the  creation  of  those  institutions  and  systems  which, 
ill  ilieir  nature,  tend  to  pervert  it  from  its  legitimate  purfioses, 
and  make  it  the  instrument  of  sections,  chvsses,  and  individu- 
als. We  need  no  National  Bank,  or  other  extraneous  institu- 
tions, planted  around  the  government  to  control  or  strengthen 
it  in  opposition  to  the  will  )i  its  authors.  Experience  has 
taught  us  how  unnecessary  they  arc  as  auxiliaries  of  the  pub- 
lic authorities,  how  impotent  for  good  and  how  powerful  for 
mischief. 

Ours  was  intended  to  be  a  plain  and  frugal  government : 
and  I  shall  regard  it  to  be  my  duty  to  recommend  to  Con- 
gress, and  as  far  as  the  Executive  is  concerned,  to  enforce  by 
all  the  means  witiilii  my  power,  tin'  strictest  economy  in  the 
expenditure  of  tlie  public  money, 
villi  the  public  interests. 

A  national  debt  has  Ijccomc  iil'ii 
pean  nv)narchies.  It  is  viewed  in  .- 
tial  prop  to  existing  guveinnienls. 
tion  of  that  people  whose  government  can  be  sustained  only 
by  a  system  whicli  periodically  transfers  large  amounts  from 
the  labor  of  the  many  to  the  coll'ers  of  tiie  few.  Su^-h  a 
svstem  is  incompatible  with  the  ends  for  which  our  republican 
government  was  instil im  .1.  Under  a  wise  policy,  the  debts 
contracted  in  our  .revolution,  and  dating  the  war  of  181'.', 
havobeeii  happily  extiiigiiislied.  liy  a  judicious  application 
of  the  revenues,  not  required  for  other  necessary  purposes,  it 
is  not  doubted  that  the  debt  which  lias  grown  out  of  the 
circumstances  of  the  last  few  years  m  ly  be  speedily  paid  otf. 

1  con<rratulate  mv  fellow-citixens  on  'he  entire  restoration 
of  the  credit  of  the   general  government  of  the   Union,  and 


lich  may  be  compatible 

t  an  institution  of  Euro- 
nie  of  them,  as  an  esseu- 
.Melancholy  is  tin!  condi- 


n..nm'i--«K.m^--i'.  •- 


[18-15. 

n  the  iimits 
prcluMisioii!* 

objects  of 
lall  steadily 
cms  whiclj, 
c  pui'f)oscs, 
id  iudividu- 
lous  institu- 
■  strengtlien 
erience  lias 
of  the  pub- 
owerful  for 

overnment : 
nd  to  Cou- 

enforcc  by 
omy  in  the 

compatible 

>n  of  Euro- 
is  an  esseu- 
•;  th(!  condi- 
taincd  only 
lounts  from 
Sii^'h  a 
r  republican 
^',  the  debts 
irof  181'.', 

applii'ation 
purposes,  it 

out  of  the 
ily  paid  off. 
!  restoration 

L'i)i<jn,  and 


>im>- 


1815.J 


INAUGURAL    ADDRESS. 


158 


(hat  of  many  of  the  States.  Happy  would  it  be  for  the  in- 
di'bted  States  if  they  were  freed  from  their  liabilities,  many 
of  wiiich  were  incautiously  contracted.  Ailiiough  the  gov- 
ernment of  the  Union  is  neither  in  a  legal  nor  a  moral  senso 
bdund  fur  the  debts  of  the.  States,  and  it  would  be  a  violation 
of  onr  compact  of  Union  to  assume  llieni,  yet  we  camiol  but 
feel  !i  deep  interest  in  seeing  all  the  States  meet  their  publio 
liabilities,  and  pay  olT  their  just  del)ls,  at  the  earliest  practi- 
"•aljlc;  period.  That  they  will  do  so,  as  soon  as  it  can  be  done 
witlwut  imposing  too  heavy  burdens  on  their  citizens,  there 
is  no  reason  to  doubt.  The  sound  moral  and  honorable  feel- 
ing of  the  people  of  the  indebted  Stales  caimot  be  question- 
ed ;  and  we  arc  happy  to  perceive  a  settled  disposition  on 
their  part,  as  their  ability  returns,  after  a  seiison  of  une.vam- 
jiled  pecuniary  embarras.sment,  to  pay  off  all  just  demands, 
and  to  acijuiesce  in  any  reasonable  measure  to  accomplish 
that  object. 

One  of  the  di.TunilLiiri  wiii.-h  we  have  had  to  encounter  in 
tlie  practical  administration  of  the  government,  consists  in 
the  adjustment  of  our  revenue  laws,  and  the  levy  of  taxes 
necessary  for  the  support  of  government.  In  the  general , 
proposition,  that  no.  more  money  shall  be  collected  than  the 
necessities  of  an  economical  administration  shall  require,  all. 
parties  seem  to  acquiesce.      Nor  does  there  seem  to  be  any 

,  material  difference  of  opinion  as  to  the  absence  of  right  in 
the  government  to  tax  one  section  of  c(3untry,  or  one  class  of 

I  citizens,  or  one  occupation,  for  the  mere  profit  of  another. 
"Justice  and  sound  policy  forbid  the  federal  government  to 
foster  one  branch  of  industry  to  the  detriment  of  another,  or 
to  cherish  the  interests  of  one  portion  to  the  injury  of  anoth- 
er portion  of  our  common  country." 

1  Inue  heretofore  declared  to  my  fellow-citizens  that,  in 
my  "  judgment,  it  is  the  duty  of  the  government  to  extend 
as  far  as  may  be  practicable  to  do 'so,  by  its  revenue  laws, 
and  all  other  means  within  its  power,  fair  and  just  protection 


I 


154 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1815. 


to  all  the  great  interests  of  the  whole  Union,  embracing  agri- 
culture, manufactures,  the  mechanic  arts,  commerce  and  nav- 
igation." I  have  also  declared  my  opinion  to  be  in  "  favoi 
of  a  tariff  <"oi'  revenue,"  and  that  in  adjusting  the  details  of 
such  a  tariff,  I  have  sanctioned  such  moderate  discriminatinj,' 
duties  as  would  produce  the  amount  of  revenue  needed,  and 
at  the  same  time,  afford  reasonable  incidental  protection  to 
our  home  industry,  and  that  I  was  "  opposed  to  a  tariff  for 
protection  merely,  and  not  for  revenue." 

The  power  "  to  lay  and  collect  taxes,  duties,  imposts,  and 
excises,"  was  an  indispensable  one  to  bo  conferred  on  the 
federal  government,  which,  without  it,  would  ^.^ssess  no  means 
of  providing  for  its  own  support.  In  executing  this  power, 
by  levying  a  tariff  of  duties  for  the  support  of  government, 
the  raising  revenue  should  be  the  object,  and  protection  the 
incident.  To  reverse  this  principle,  and  make  protection  the 
object  and  revenue  the  incident,  would  be  to  inflict  mnnifest 
injustice  upon  all  other  than  the  protected  interests.  In  1(;\  y- 
ing  duties  for  revenue,  it  is  doubtless  proper  to  make  such 
discriminations  within  the  revenue  principle,  as  y/Wl  afford  in- 
cidental protection  to  our  home  interests.  Within  the  rev- 
enue limit,  there  is  a  discretion  to  discriminate ;  beyond  tliiU 
limit,  the  rightful  exercise  of  the  power  is  not  conceded.  The 
incidental  protection  afforded  to  our  home  interests  by  dis- 
crimination within  the  revenue  range,  it  is  believed  will  be 
ample.  In  making  discriminations,  all  our  home  interests 
shoidd,  as  far  as  practicable,  be  equally  protected. 

The  largest  portion  of  our  people  fje  agriculturists.  Others 
are  employed  in  manufactures,  commerce,  navigation,  and  the 
mechanic  arts.  They  are  all  engaged  in  their  respective  pur- 
suits, and  their  joint  labors  constitute  the  national  or  home 
industry.  To  tax  one  branch  of  this  home  industry  for  the 
benefit  of  another,  would  be  unjust.  No  one  of  these  inter- 
ests can  rightfully  daim  an  advantage  over  the  others,  or  to 
be  enriched  by  impoverishing  the  others.      All  are  equally 


r 


[1815. 

ibracing  agri- 
srcc  and  nav- 
bc  in  "  fa  vol 
the  details  of 
liscriminating 
needed,  and 
protection  to 
to  a  tariff  for 

imposts,  and 
ferred  on  tlio 
isess  no  means 
g  this  power, 

government, 
3rot«ction  the 
jrotection  the 
nflict  manifest 
;sts.  In  levy- 
to  make  such 
^vill  afford  in- 
ithin  the  rev- 
;  beyond  that 
;oncedcd.  The 
terests  by  dis- 
ilieved  will  he 
lome  interests 
ied. 

turists.  Others 
jation,  and  the 
•espective  pur- 
tional  or  home 
dustry  for  the 
of  these  intcr- 
e  others,  or  tc 
.11  are  equally 


*  ^»iiil>i»Miii>'  ti^tUik'M'mm^i'iu 


Mfe'J^  Himii  n  i'  fi  1 11  ilttiiii  I  f ■  III  Ihatip 


1845.J 


INAUGITUAL    AnnUESS. 


155 


entitled  to  the  fosteriiiii;  care  and  protection  of  the  novern- 
mont.  In  exercising  a  sonnd  discretion  in  levying  discrimin- 
ating duties,  within  the  limit  pi^seribed,  care  slioulii  i)e  taken 
that  it  be  done;  in  a  manner  not  to  benetlt  the  wealliiy  few, 
al  the  expense  of  tlie  toiling  millions,  ^-  taxing  lowest  the 
luxuries  of  life,  or  articii's  of  superior  iiuulity  and  higli  price, 
wliicii  can  only  be  cdusumed  by  the  wtahliy  :  and  iiigliest, 
the  necessaries  of  life,  or  articles  of  coarse  (piality  and  low 
jirice,  which  the  iioor  and  gieat.  mass  of  the  people  nuist  con- 
sume. The  burdens  of  government  sliouid,  as  far  as  practi- 
cable, be  distributed  justly  and  equally  among  all  classes  of 
our  population.  These  general  views,  long  entertained  on  the 
subject,  1  have  deemed  it  proper  to  reiterate.  It  is  a  subject 
upon  which  conflicting  interests  of  sections  and  occupations 
are  suposcd  to  exist,  and  a  spirit  of  mutual  concession  and 
compromise  in  adjusting  its  details  should  be  cherished  by 
every  part  of  our  wide-spread  coimtry,  as  the  only  means  of 
preserving  harmony  and  a  cheerful  acquiescence  of  all  in  the 
operation  of  our  revenue  laws.  Our  patriotic  citizens  in  every 
part  of  the  Union  will  readily  submit  to  the  payment  of  such 
taxes  as  shall  be  needed  for  the  support  of  their  government, 
whether  in  peace  or  in  war,  if  they  are  so  levied  as  to  dis- 
tribute the  burdens  as  equally  as  possible  among  them. 

The  republic  of  Texas  has  made  known  her  desire  to  come 
into  our  Union,  to  form  a  part  of  our  confederacy,  and  to  en- 
joy with  us  the  blessing  of  liberty  secured  and  guaranteed  by 
our  constitution.  Texas  was  once  a  part  of  our  country — 
was  unwisely  ceded  away  to  a  foreign  power — is  now  inde- 
pendent, and  possesses  an  undoubted  right  to  dispose  of  a 
part  or  the  whole  of  her  territory,  and  to  merge  her  sovereign- 
ty as  a  separate  and  independent  State,  in  ours.  I  congratu- 
late my  country  that,  by  an  act  of  the  last  Congress  of  the 
United  States,  the  assent  of  this  government  has  been  given 
to  the  reiinion ;  and  it  only  remains  for  the  two  countries  to 
agree  upon  the  terms,  to  consummate  an  object  so  important 
to  both. 


166 


JAMES   KNOX    POLK. 


[1845. 


I  regard  the  question  of  ar.nexiition  as  belonfiing  exclusive- 
ly to  tlu!  United  States  and  Texas.  They  arc  independent 
powers,  competent  to  contract ;  and  foreign  nations  iiave  no 
riifjit  to  interfere  with  them,  or  to  take  exceptions  to  their  re- 
iiiiion.  Foreign  powers  do  not  seem  to  appreciate  the  true 
cliaracter  of  our  gnlernment.  Our  Union  is  a  confederation 
of  independent  States,  whose  policy  is  peace  with  each  other 
and  nil  the  world.  To  enlarge  its  limits,  is  to  extend  the  do- 
minion of  peace  over  additional  territories  and  increasing  mil- 
lions. The  world  has  nothing  to  fear  from  military  ambition 
in  our  government.  While  the  chief  magistrate  and  the  popu- 
lar branch  of  Congress  arc  elected  for  short  terms  by  the 
suffrages  of  those  millions  who  must,  in  their  own  persons, 
bear  all  the  burdens  and  miseries  of  war,  our  government 
cannot  be  otherwi.se  than  pacific.  Foreign  powers  should, 
therefore,  look  on  the  annexation  of  Texas  to  the  United  States, 
not  as  the  conquest  of  a  nation  seeking  to  extend  her  domin- 
ions by  arms  and  violence,  but  as  the  peaceful  acquisition  of 
a  territory  once  her  own,  by  adding  another  member  to  our 
confederation,  with  the  consent  of  that  member — thereby  di- 
minishing the  chances  of  war,  and  opening  to  them  new  and 
ever-increasing  markets  for  their  products. 

To  Texas  the  reunion  is  important,  because  the  strong  pro- 
tecting arm  of  our  government  would  be  extended  over  her, 
and  the  vast  resources  of  her  fertile  soil  and  genial  climato 
would  be  speedily  developed ;  while  the  safety  of  New  Or 
leans,  and  of  our  southAvestem  frontier,  against  hostile  ag- 
gression, as  well  as  the  interest  of  the  whole  Union,  would  be 
promoted  by  it. 

In  the  earlier  stages  of  our  national  existence,  the  opinion 
prevailed  with  some,  that  our  system  of  confederated  states 
could  not  operate  successfully  over  an  extended  territory,  and 
serious  objections  have,  at  different  times,  been  made  to  the 
enlargement  of  our  boundaries.  These  objections  were  earn- 
estly urged  when  we  acquired  Louisiana.    Experience  haa 


[1845. 

ling  exclusivo- 
c  independent 
ulions  iiiive  no 
)n8  to  tlieir  re- 
ciate  tliG  trno 
,  confedenitiiin 
ith  eacli  other 
extend  the  do- 
increiisinLj  niil- 
litnry  ambition 
and  tlic  popu- 
tcrms  by  tlie 
own  persons, 
ir  government 
)owers  should, 
United  States, 
nd  her  domin- 
acquisition  of 
nember  to  our 
r — thereby  di- 
them  new  and 

he  strong  pro- 
ided  over  her, 
genial  climate 
^  of  New  Or- 
ist  hostile  ag- 
lion,  would  be 

3e,  the  opinion 
derated  states 
I  territory,  and 
I  made  to  the 
Dns  were  earn- 
Ixperience  has 


■-     -"  ■    %  Til  I  iliiHirjilii 


1845.J 


INAUGURAL    ADDRESS. 


157 


shown  that  they  were  nut  well  founded.  The  title  of  nu- 
merous Indian  tribes  to  vast  tracts  of  country  has  been  extin- 
guished. New  States  have  been  admitted  into  the  Union  ; 
new  Territories  have  been  created,  and  our  jurisdiction  and 
laws  extended  over  them.  As  our  population  has  expanded, 
the  Union  has  been  cemented  and  (-trengthened  ;  as  our 
boundaries  have  been  enlarged,  and  our  agricultural  popula- 
tion has  been  spread  over  a  large  suilaee,  our  federative,  sys- 
tem has  accjuired  additional  strength  and  security.  It  may 
well  be  doubted  whether  it  would  not  be  in  greater  danger 
of  overthrow,  if  our  present  population  were  confined  to  tlie 
comparatively  narrow  limits  of  the  original  thirteen  States, 
than  it  is,  now  that  thi^y  are  sparsely  settled  over  an  expand- 
ed territory.  It  is  confidently  believed  that  our  system  may 
be  safely  extended  to  the  utmost  bounds  of  our  territorial 
limit.s;  and  that,  as  it  shall  be  extended,  I C  bonds  of  our 
Union,  so  far  from  being  weakened,  will  become  stronr^er. 

None  can  fail  to  see  the  dang(!r  to  our  safety  and  future  peace, 
if  Texas  remains  an  independent  State,  or  becomes  an  ally  or  ' 
dep(!ndency  of  some  foreign  nation  more  powerful  than  her- 
self. Is  there  one  among  our  citizen  >vho  would  not  prefer 
])erpetual  peace  with  Texas,  to  occasional  wars,  which  so 
often  occur  between  bordering  independent  nations?  Is 
there  one  who  would  not  prefer  free  intercourse  with  her,  to 
high  duties  on  all  our  products  and  manufactures  which  en- 
ter iier  ports  or  cross  her  frontiers  ?  Is  there  one  who  would 
not  prefer  an  unrestricted  commxmication  with  her  citizens,  to 
tiie  frontier  obstructions  which  must  occur  if  she  remains  out 
of  the  Union  ?  Whatever  is  good  or  evil  in  the  local  institu- 
tions of  Texas,  will  remain  her  own,  whether  annexed  to  the 
United  States  or  not.  None  of  the  present  States  will  be 
responsible  for  them,  any  more  than  they  are  for  the  local  in- 
stitutions of  each  other.  They  have  confederated  together 
for  certain  specified  objects. 

Upon  the  same  principle  that  they  would  refuse  to  form  a 


158 


JAMKS    KNOX    POLK. 


[1845. 


porpotuiil  uniot.  with  Texas,  because  of  li.-r  local  institutions, 

our  foirfatluTs  would  luiw  been  prevented  from  forinm-  our 

present  Union.     PereeivinK  no  valid  objertion  to  tlie  .measure, 

•      and  many  reasons  for  its  adoption,  vitally  allVct.n-  the  peace, 

the  safet'v,  "nd  the  prosperity  of  both  countries.  I  shiii,  on 

the  broad   principle  which  f-anu'd  th.'  basis,  and  produced 

the  adf.ption  of  ..ur  constitution,  and  not  in  any  narrow  spirit 

of  s..clional  policy,  endeavor,  by  all  constitutional,  honorable. 

,   and  appropriate  means,  to  consummate  the  expirss  will  ol 

f    the  p.'opl..  and  -overnnunt  of  llu-  Tniied  States,  by  th.-  re- 

annexation  of  Texas  to  ..ur  Union,  at  tlu'  earliest  practicable 

period.  , 

Nor  will  it  become  in  a  l.-ss  d.'grce  my  duty  to  assert  and 
maintain,  bv  all  cnslilutional  means,  the  n^ht  of  the  L  ml.'.l 
States  to  that  in.rli.m  <,f  our  territory  which  lu's  beyond  llu^ 
Rocky  M.mntains.     (^u-  till.-  to  th.-  camtry  of  tlw  On-un 
is  "clear  and  unquestionable  ;"  and  already  are  nur  people 
preparing  to  perfect  that  title,  by  occupying  it  with  th.-n' 
.vives  and  children,     liut  eighty  years  ag.>,  our  popuh.tion 
^vas  confined  on  the  west  by  the  ri.lge  of  the  Alleghames. 
Within  that  period-within  the  life-time,  I  might  say,  of  some 
of  my  hearers-our  people,  increasing  to  many  millions,  have 
filled  the  eastern  valley  of  the   Mississippi;  adventurou.  y 
ascended  the  Missouri  to  its  head  springs ;  and  are  alirady 
en-a.red  in  establishing  the  blessings  of  self-government  in 
vailevs,  of  which  the  rivers  flow  to  the  Pacific.     T'he  w..rld 
beholds  the  peaceful  triumphs  of  the  industry  of  our  emi- 
-nants.     To  us  belongs  the  duty  of  protecting  them  a.b- 
miat.-lv,  wherever  they  may  be  upon  our  soil.     The  junsdic- 
ti,.n  of  our  laws,  and  the  benefits  of  our  republican  institu- 
tions should  be  extended  over  them  in  the   distant  regions 
which  thev  have  selected  for  their  homes.     The  increasnig 
facilities  of  intercourse  will  easily  bring  the  States,  of  whicli 
tlie  formation  in  that  part  of  our  territory  cannot  long  be 
delayed,  within  the  sphere  of  our  federative  Union.     In  tiie 


•"P"liWMTW»W»'.'tJ!'J!WlH^ir 


J 


[184o. 

ciil  institution.-*, 
)ni  fiirniiiii^  mir 
to  till'  nii'iisuri', 
'.tiiij,'  tilt'  pc.'ici', 
rifs,  I  sliiill,  nil 

ami  iirodiictil 
ly  niiriMNV  KpirlL 
null,  lioiionilili', 

i'.\prc'*s  will  "I' 
n(os,  by  tlic  rc- 
licst  pmctii'iibli' 

tv  to  iisscrl  ami 
it,  of  till-  Unilril 

lies  bcyoiul  tlir 
,■  of  the  Oi'<'j,fon 

IIP!  our  pcopl;' 
ig  it  with  tlifir 

our  poimlitioii 
tlic  Alk'glianii's. 
jifbt  siiy,  of  isoiiic 
iiy  millions,  have 
i ;  ndventurnii.-ly 

and  arc  already 
If-goveninieiil  in 
jific.  The  world 
istiy  of  our  enii- 
ctinjr  tliem  ade- 
il.  The  jurisdic- 
?publican  institu- 
e  distant  regions 
The  increasing 

States,  of  wliich 
i'  cannot  long  be 
e  Union.     In  the 


1845.] 


INAUGURAL    AnDIlESS, 


159 


meantime,  every  ..bligalion  imposed  by  treaty  or  conventional 
stipulations,  should  b(!  sacredly  respected. 

In  the  nianagenient  of  our  foreign  relations,  il  will  be  my 
aim  to  observe  a  careful  respect  for  the  rights  of  other  na- 
tions, while  our  own  will  be  the  subject  of  constant  watchful- 
ness.' i:.|ual  Mild  i'xaet  justic  should  characterize  all  ..ur  in- 
tercours,'  will,  f.-reigu  countries.  All  alliances  having  a  leii- 
(leiu'V  to  jeopard  the  welfare  and  honor  of  our  country,  or 
sacrifice  any  one  of  ll.e  :iaLloM:d  in!'  n'^^ts,  will  be  .studi.-nsly 
avoid.'d;  and  yl  no  opportunity  will  be  lo.a  to  cuUi\a;r  n 
favorable  underst.i..,::-,vjr  with  foreign  governm.'nts,  by  winch 
our  navigation  and  commerce  may  be  extended,  and  the  a;ii- 
ple  products  of  our  fertih^  soil,  as  well  as  the  manufactures  of 
uur  skilful  artisans,  tind  a  ready  market  and  remunerating 
prices  ill  foreign  countries. 

In  taking  "care  that  the  laws  be  faithfully  executed,"  a, 
strict  perlVa-mance  of  duty  will  be  exacted  from  all  public 
onicers.  From  those  onicers,  especially,  who  are  charged 
with  the  collection  and  disbursement  of  the  public  revenue, 
will  prompt  and  rigid  accountability  be  retiuired.  Any  cul- 
pable failure  or  delay  on  their  part  to  account  for  the  moneys 
entrusted' to  them,  at  the  times  and  in  tlie  manner  required 
by  law,  will,  in  every  instance,  terminate  tbe  official  connec- 
tion of^such  defaulting  tifficer  with  the  government. 

AUbough,  in  our  country,  the  chief  magistrat.i  must  al- 
most of  necessity  be  chostm  by  a  party,  and  stand  pledged  to  , 
its  principles  and  measures,  yet  in  his  official  action,  he  should/ 
not  be  the  president  of  a  part  only,  but  of  the  whole  people 
of  tbe  United  States.  While  he  executes  the  law  with  an  im- 
partial band,  shrinks  from  no  proper  responsibility,  and  faith- 
fully carries  out  in  the  executive  department  of  the  govern- 
ment the  principles  and  policy  of  those  who  have  chosen  him, 
be  should  not  be  unmindful  that  our  fellow-citizens  who  have 
dilfcred  with  him  in  opinion  are  entitled  to  the  full  and_  free 
exercise  of  their  opinions  and  judgments,  and  that  the  rights 
of  all  arc  entitled  to  respect  and  regard. 


IGO 


JAMKH    KNOX    I'OLK. 


[1845. 


Cimfideiitly  rrhlii^'  upon  llir  'aid  nml  iisslstancp  of  tlio 
t'()()i(liimtc  blanches  of  llu'  govminunt,  in  tondncling  our 
public  affiiirg,  I  enter  upon  the  discharge  of  tlie  liigli  duticw 
whi'di  Iiave  been  assigned  .me  l)y  tlie  people,  again  humbly 
supplicating  that  Divine  Ucing  who  has  watched  over  and 
protected  our  behived  country  fr(,ni  its  infancy  to  the  jiresenl 
hour,  to  continue  his  generous  l)enedictions  upon  us,  that  we 
may  cunlinue  to  be  a  prosperous  and  happy  people. 

Having  concluded  liis  address,  tlio  ontli  of  ofTico  was 
administered  to  the  president  by  Chief  Justice  'I'aney, 
after  which  the  former  left  the  cajiitol  in  his  carriage, 
ond  proceeded  rapi<lly,  by  an  indirect  route,  in  order  to 
avoid  further  fatigue,  to  the  president's  house,  where, 
during  the  after  part  of  the  day,  he  received  the  congrat- 
ulations of  his  fellow-citizens.  In  the  evening,  the  presi- 
dent and  his  lady  attended  the  two  inauguration  balls 
given  in  the  city.  Thus  ended  a  ceremony  which  had, 
doubtless,  caused  him  many  a  moment  of  uniost,  and  to 
which  thousands  had  looked  forward  with  beating  hearts 
and  with  deep  anxiety. 

In  such  a  nuinner  does  the  American  republic  change 
her  sovereigns — no  pomp  or  ostentatious  parade — no  mili- 
tary escort  for  protection — no  heralds  o^  pursuivants  to 
make  proclamation — no  crowns  or  insignia  emblematic  of 
royalty — no  holy  ampulla  to  pour  upon  the  consecrated 
head — but  a  plain  and  simple  ceremony  in  unison  with 
her  free  institutions,  and  with  the  genius  and  character 
of  her  people ! 


»^VltTli  f  fc.lJ'Ji'.yft'J*''^. 


■■■'»w-'W-»i>r--j*w(.wt.um)wt!,-.-j;g-'k'": 


[1845. 

ixistanco  of  tlio 
fdiuliicting  our 
till!  higli  (lutii's 
,  iigaiii  liumbly 
clu'd  over  ami 
f  to  tliu  jircsciil 
ion  us,  tlmt  wi! 
ioplo. 

I  of  ofTico  was 
usticc  Taney, 

liis  cairiiigf, 
tc,  in  Older  to 

house,  where, 
(1  tlie  congnit- 
ing,  the  presi- 
i;uration  balls 
[ly  which  had, 
uniost,  and  to 
beating  hearts 

public  change 
ade — no  mili- 
)ur8uivants  to 
emblematic  of 
0  consecrated 
n  unison  with 
md  character 


"WW** 


CHAPTER  VIII. 

PujiUion  of  tlio  IVosiJoiit— Ilii  Cubiuot— 'I'lio  \Viwliin({toii  lilnbo  and  Tho 
I^iiloM— Meeting  of  Congrons— Kirsl  Aiiiiiial  Mi'imige— Tho  I  >iegon 
r.oimil.'iry  Question — Ilintory  und  I'niKresn  of  tlio  N'e({"llfilion— I'ltiinil" 
tiiiii  of  tlio  Anieiiiiin  (loverniuent  — l'ni[iosition  of  ( ireut  ilrituiii — Con- 
clii^ioii  luij  Kutilluutiun  of  a  Treaty, 

Mil.  Pi>LK  entered  upon  liis  adniinistrutlun  under 
somewhat  unfavorable  auspices.  Ho  belonged  to  a 
jouiiger  raeo  of  statesmen  than  the  proiriinent  candidates 
whose  names  were  originally  presented  tu  tho  Baltimoro 
Convention,  and  it  was  but  natural  that  ho  should  bo 
fearful  of  incurring  the  dislike,  or  encountering  the  preju- 
tliees,  of  some  one  or  more  of  them,  which  might  tend 
seriously  to  embarrass  his  administration.  But  his  po- 
sition personally,  was  all  that  could  be  desired.  Ho 
had  no  pledges  to  redeem — no  promises  to  fulfil ;  and 
he  was  not  a  candidate  for  reelection.  He  was  indiffer- 
ont,^too,  as  to  which  of  the  leading  men  of  his  party 
should  bo  his  successor.  It  was  his  desire,  therefore, 
to  harmonize  and  conciliate,  but,  at  the  same  time,  to 
surrender  no  principle,  to  maintain  his  character  for 
independence,  and  to  preserve  the  dignity  of  his  official 
position. 

His  cabinet  was  selected  from  among  the  most  dis- 
tinguished members  of  tho  democratic  party,  and  in  it 
each  section  of  the  confederacy  was  represented.    James 


A'Hf''»Mn^"^^i.^'j*W-."t.Mn)wgv..j.H^r". 


J 


162 


JAMES   KNOX    POLK. 


[1845. 


Buclmnan,  of  Pennsylvania,  \Yas  appointed  Secretary  of 
State;  Robert  J.  Walker,  of  Mississippi,  Secretary  of 
the  Treasury  ;  William  L.  Warcy,  of  New  York,  Secre- 
tary of  War ;  George  Bancroft,  of  Massachusetts,  Sec- 
retary of  the  Navy  ;  Cave  Johnson,  of  Tennessee,  Post- 
master-general, aiul  John  Y.  Mason,  of  Virginia,  Attor- 
ney-general.* These  selections  appeareil  to  g.ve  entire 
satisfaction  ;  and  if  murmurs  were  heard  in  any  quarter, 
tliey  were  condemned  by  the  general  voice  of  the  repub- 
licans of  the  nation. 

For  several  years  a  strong  and  influential   portion  of 
the  democratic  party  in  tlie  southern  states  had  disap- 
proved of  the  arbitrary  and  dictatorial  tone,  as  they 
alleged,  of  the  Washington  Globe,  the  principal  republi- 
can journal  at  Washington.     Governed  by  the  purest; 
motives  of  conciliatiuii,  the  President  suggested  the  trans- 
fer of  the  newspaper  establishment  lo  other  persons  than 
the  then  publishers,  Francis  P.  Blair  and  John  C.  Rives. 
The  latter,  acting  under  tlie  advice  and  witli  the  api)ro- 
bation  of  General  Jaclison  and  Mr.  Van  Buren,  acceded 
to  this   proposition;    their  interest  in  the   Globe  was 
cheerfully  transferred,  and  a  new  paper,  called  |'  The 
Union,"   established   in   its    stead,  under  the  editorial 

*  The  offlee  of  Pecrotury  of  tlio  Treasury  was  in  tho  first  place  ten- 
clci-cd  l.yJilr.  Polk  to  f-il.'i3  Wright,  of  New  York;  but  as  tho  latter haj 
\,e..M  chosen  governor  of  hU  state,  at  the  election  of  1»»4,  and  was  un.le. 
an  hni-lied  vledge  not  to  vacate  the  oflice  for  a  scat  in  tho  national  eabniet. 
1,0  did  not  accept  it.  The  office  of  i^ecretary  of  War  was  then  tendered  to 
Benjamin  V.  Butler,  also  a  distinguished  citizen  of  New  York,  but  lie  too 
declined  ;  whereupon  cx-Governor  Marcy  was  selected  for  that  station,  m 
accordance  with  tho  request  of  a  majority  ■  ,  tho  doraocratio  delegation  m 
Congress  from  New  York,  and  of  a  majority  of  the  members  of  the  legisla- 
ture of  the  state  belonging  to  that  party. 


[1845. 

Secretary  of 
Secretary  of 
York,  Secrc- 
husctts,  Sec- 
iiesscc,  Post- 
•ginia,  Attor- 
to  give  entire 
any  ;jnarter, 
jf  the  repub- 

ial  portion  of 
!S  had  disap- 
tone,  as  they 
icipal  repuhli- 
by  the  purest 
sted  the  trans- 
V  persons  than 
fohn  C.  Rives. 
ith  the  appro- 
5uren,  acceded 
le  Globe  was 
called  "The 
■  the  editorial 

tho  first  place  tcn- 
it  as  tho  liiltcr  hii J 
8-J-l,  and  was  undei 
10  national  cabinet, 
ras  then  tendcicd  tu 
T  York,  but  he  too 
for  that  station,  in 
cratic  delegation  in 
libera  of  tho  legisla- 


•    »    ■,   "Ji  liM"  nm^'w 


1845.J 


FIRST  ANNUAL   MESSAGE. 


169 


9 

charge  of  Thomas  Ritchie,  who  had  long  been  honorably 
connected  with  the  Richmond  Enquirer  in  the  same  ca- 
pacity. 

The  treaty  for  the  annexation  of  Texas,  concluded  by 
President  Tyler,  was  rejected  by  the  Senate  of  the 
United  States,  on  the  8th  day  of  June,  1844.  At  tho 
ensuing  session  of  Congress,  the  subject  was  again 
brought  forward,  and  joint  resolutions,  providing  for  the 
,  annexation,  were  adopted  on  the  1st  day  of  March,  1845. 
The  people  of  Texas,  represented  in  convention,  signi- 
fied their  assent  to  the  terms  of  the  resolutions  on  the 
4th  of  July  following,  and  formed  a  state  constitution, 
which  was  forwarded  to  Washington  to  be  laid  before  the 
Congress  of  the  United  States  by  the  President. 

The  first  session  of  the  twenty-ninth  Congress,— being 
also  the  first  held  during  the  administration  of  Mr. 
Polk,— commenced  on  the  1st  day  of  December,  1845. 
The  friends  of  the  administration  being  in  a  considerabli 
majority,  John  W.  Davis  was  elected  speaker  of  the 
House,  by  one  hundred  and  twenty  votes  to  seventy-two 
given  for  Samuel  F.  Vinton,  of  Ohio,  the  whig  candidate. 
On  the  ensuing  day  the  President  communicated  his  first 
annual  message  to  the  two  houses  of  Congress : 

FIRST   ANNUAL   MESSAGE. 
Fellow-citiesM  of  tho  Senate,  and  House  of  Represent*tiv«  : 

It  is  t»  me  a  source  of  unaflFected  satisfaction  to  meet  the 
representatives  of  the  States  and  the  people  in  Congress  as- 
sembled, as  It  wUI  be  to  receive  the  aid  of  then-  combined 
wisdom  m  the  admimstration  of  pubUc  affairs.  In  performing 
for  the  fii-st  time  the  duty  imposed  on  me  by  the  Constitu- 
tion,  of  giving  to  you  information  of  the  state  of  the  Union, 


1 


164 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1845. 


T 


and  recommonding  to  your  ''^-•^/^^^"f  ~u  n;" 
in  rnvjud-nnent  arc  necessary  and  expedient,  I  am  lu  prT 
thaH  can  congratulate  you  on  the  continued  prospenty  o 
r  country.     Under  the  blessings  of  Div.ne  Providence  an 
Z  Cgn  influence  of  our  free  in.titutio:..  ^t  sUnds  bclo.e 
tho  world  a  spectacle  of  national  happiness.    ^,.^^  >., 
•     Wirouru'iexainpled  advancement  iu  all  tl- ele-nts  o 
national  .neatness,  the  affection  of  the  people  ,s  confirmed  for 
;^e  union  of  the  States,  nnd  for  the  doctrines  of  popular  lib- 
erty, .hich  lie  at  the  f— ^ion  of^our  g..rnmen  • 

It  becomes  us,  in  humdity,  to  makt  our  uc 
edUnt  to  the  Supreme  Ruler  of  the  Umverse  for  the  nes- 
Se  civil  and  .' Ugio-  blessings  with  which  we  are  fa- 

''"if  callin.  the  attention  i>f  Congress  to  our  relations  with 
fori;  powa-s,  I  am  gratified  to  be  able  to  state,  tha  .though 
wit  home  of  hem  there  have  existed  since  your  last  session 
TeLsTause  of  irritation  and  misunderstanding,  yet  no  actual 
Sties  have  taken  place.  Adq>ting  the  maxim  m  the  co,  - 
duct  of  our  foreign  affairs  to  "  ask  nothing  that  ,s  not  right, 
tt  Imit  to  nothing  that  is  wrong  "  it  has  been -y  -. 
ious  desire  to  preserve  peace  with  all  «-t-ns ;  but.  at^^h 
same  time,  to  be  prepared  to  resist  aggression,  and  to  mam 

tain  all  our  just  rights.  r.^r.o.rP«  "  for  an- 

In  pursuance  of  the  joint  resolution  of  Congress     fm  an 
nexin^^cxas  to  the  United  States,"  my  predecessor  on  the 

se  ond  sLions  of  that  resolution  to  the  republic  of  Tex^,  as 
an  over  ure  on  the  part  of  the  United  States,  for  her  adm.s- 
1  a  Stl  into  our  Union.  This  election  I  approved, 
3  ^d^X  rcharg.  d'affaires  of  the  Unit^^^^^^^^^^^^^ 
Texas,  under  instructions  of  the  tenth  of  March.  1845  pre 
l^d  these  sections  of  the  resolution  ^o' f  ^/X"": 
that  republic.  The  Executive  Government,  the  Congress. 
id  ti'Jeople  of  Texas  in  convention,  have  successively  com- 


,..j.i.„..,.ji,!:--i>.W»'WtK.'-'l'W..'.-UMi»»*S>'''.^'*'" 


!.<.v:''  i'hjifm»  ty*  tr-ji.vn'' "t'Afc  • 


J 


[1845. 

h  measures  as 
,  I  am  happy 
[  prosperity  of 
'rovidence  and 
t  sUinds  before 

lie  elements  of 
s  confirmed  for 
of  popular  lib- 
iment. 

evout  acknowl- 
?e,  for  the  ines- 
kich  we  arc  fa- 

r  relations  with 
ite,  that^though 
:our  last  session 
rr,  yet  no  actual 
axim  in  the  con- 
bat  is  not  right, 
ts  been  my  anx- 
)ns ;  but,  at  the 
)n,  and  to  main- 

)ngress  "  for  an- 
decessor,  on  the 
lit  the  first  and 
iblic  of  Texas,  as 
!s,  for  her  admis- 
3tion  I  approved, 
United  SUtes  in 
larch,  1845,  pre- 
tbe  acceptance  of 
t,  the  Congress, 
successively  com- 


1845.] 


FIRST   ANNUAL    ME.SSAGE. 


165 


plied  with  all  the  terms  and  conditions  of  the  joint  resolution. 
A  constitution  for  the  government  of  the  State  of  Texiis, 
formed  by  a  convention  of  deputies,  is  herewith  laid  before 
Congress.  It  is  well  known,  also,  that  the  people  of  Texas 
nt  the  polls  have  accejjted  the  terms  of  annexation,  and  rati- 
fied the  constitution. 

1  communicate  to  Congress  the  correspondence  between 
the  Secretary  of  State  and  our  Charge  d'Affaires  in  Texas  ; 
and  also  the  correspondence  of  the  latter  with  the  authorities 
of  Texas;  together  with  the  official  documents  transmitted 
by  him  to  his  own  government. 

The  terms  of  annexation  which  were  offered  by  the  United 
States  having  been  accepted  by  ''exas,  the  public  faith  of 
both  parties  is  solemnly  pledged  to  the  compact  of  their 
union.     Nothing  remains  to  consummate  the  event,  but  the 
passage  of  an  act  by  Congress  to  admit  the  State  of  Texas 
into  the  Union  upon  an  equal  footing  with  the  original  States. 
Strong  reasons  exist  wliy  this  should  be  done  at  an  early  pe- 
riod of  the  session.     It  will  be  observed,  that  by  the  Consti- 
tution of  -Texas,  the  existing  government  is  only  continued 
temporarily  till  Congress  can  act,  and  that  the  third  Monday 
of  tiie  present  month  is  the  day  appointed  for  holding  the 
first  general  election.     On  that  day,  a  governor,  a  lieutenant- 
governor,  and  both  branches  of  the  legislature,  will  be  chosen 
by  the  people.     The  President  of  Texas  is  i-equired,  immedi- 
ately after  the  receipt  of  official  information  that  tlie  new 
State  has  been  admitted  into  our  Union  by  Congress,  to  con- 
vene the  Legislature;    and,  upon  its  meeting,  the  existing 
government  will  be  superseded,  and  the  State  Govemmen't 
organized.     Questions  deeply  interesting  to  Texas,  in  com- ' 
mon  with  the  other  States,  the  extension  of  our  revenue  laws 
and  judicial  system  over  her  people  and  territory,  as  well  as 
measures  of  a  local  character,  will  claim  the  early  attention 
of  Congress ;  and,  therefore,  upon  every  principle  of  repub- 
lican government,  she  ought  to  be  represented  in  that  body 


s 


•«»WEW«SS*1W 


160 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[18-15. 


without  unneces^vry  delay.     I  cannot  too  earnestly  recom- 
mend prompt  action  on  this  important  subject. 

As  soon  L  the  act  to  admit  Texas  as  a  State  shall  be  i  a  .- 
ed  tirunio'of  the  two  republics  will  be  consummated  by 
iheir  own  voluntary  consent.  KW^llPs<;achieve- 

This  accession  to  our  territory  has  been  a  Woodless  achec 
„.ent.  No  arm  of  force  has  b^en  raised  to  Produce  he^- 
Tult  The  sword  has  had  no  part  m  the  vxtory  \N  e  h.n. 
not  sought  to  extend  ou-  territorial  possessions  by  conqu^ 
or  our  republicvn  institutions,  over  a  reluctant  people.  It  >n  •  s 
TdeliberL  homage  of  each  people  to  the  great  pnucple 
of  our  federative  Union.  .      ,    j   ;«  fl,P   m- 

If  we  consider  the  extent  of  terntory  mvolved  m  the 
nexation-it«  prospective  influence  on  Amenca-thc  meauH 
bv  wWch  it  h.^  been  accomplished,  springing  purely  f.on.  the 
clUce  of  tHeople  themselves  to  share  tl-  ^...ngs  of  our 
Untn,-the  iLory  of  the  world  may  be  challenged  to  tu- 

"1h:  ^on  of  the  United  States,  ff^^^^^ 
tion  of  \he  federal  institution  w.bou^^^^^  M. 

•    ^«  tKo  AtUnlic  has  passed  tne  L/.ipLs  ui    i  • 

!rch  had  been  our  ancient  ally-the  country  which,  la    a 

°S^e  h.,e  be.-  every  year  <ln>™g  more  and  more  c  o>  - 
.  t  ^.01  B«ce«.M  commeree-most  une.peeteJly. 

::f:  „rUa.a  --^^  vtn ':  :*::.  r,::::- 

„„ne»Uon,andt«.mpo8.onTe,a^,^a»o  ^^^^^^ 

.:t';;jiJ::urrsr:"we™yr.io.e.ua. 


n'^u>8'<u«iiwWMg».i».>'.iw'iw»;m»a<i>-,M«wiW«^vjt  ^m-imwMum  .n<.  i 


[1845. 

rnestly  rccom- 

i  shall  be  pass- 
isummated  by 


(odless  achieve - 
roduce  the  rc- 


ary. 


We  have 


ns  by  conquest, 
people.  It  was 
great  principle 

ved  in  the  an- 
ica — the  means 
purely  horn  the 
blossings  of  our 
allenged  to  t'ur- 

ih  at  the  forma- 
by  the  St.  Ma- 
of' Florida,  and 
In  contemplat- 
36  forgotten  tliat 
jlomatic  interfer- 
^ce— the  country 
try  which,  has  a 
e  freedom  of  the 
f  Louisiana,  first 
-the  country  witli 
•e  and  more  close- 
ost  unexpectedly, 
.  effort  to  prevent 
ndition  of  the  rec- 
,  that  she  would 
^e  may  rejoice  that 


!■?'■.'»  n»v  '"f 


■t«-'km.vw--w«aim'>j'*.'WjU'.)  •' 


1845.] 


FIUST    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


16T 


tlio  tranquil  and  pervading  influence  of  the  American  princi- 
pli"  of  self-government  was  sufficient  to  defeat  the  purposes  of 
liritish  and  French  interference,  and  that  the  almost  unani- 
1111  )us  voice  of  the  people  of  Texas  has  given  to  that  interfer- 
ence a  peaceful  and  effective  rebuke.  From  this  example, 
iMiropciin  governments  may  learn  how  vain  diplomatic  arts 
and  intrigues  must  ever  prove  up(jn  this  continent,  against 
tliat  system  of  self-government  which  seems  natural  to  our 
soil,  and  which  will  ever  resist  foreign  interference. 

'I'oward  Toxiis,  1  do  not  doubt  that  a  liberal  ..nd  generous 
spirit  will  actuate  Congress  in  all  that  concerns  her  interests 
and  prosperity,  and  that  she  will  never  have  cause  to  regret 
1  liat  she  lias  united  lier  "  lone  star"  to  our  glorious  constel- 
lation. 

I  regret  to  inform  you  that  our  relations  with  Mexico,  since 
ymir  last  session,  have  not  been  of  the  amicable  character 
which  it  is  our  desire  to  cultivate  with  all  foreign  nations. 
.  (  )m  the  (5th  day  of  March  last,  tlie  Mexican  envoy  extraor- 
dinary and  minister  plenipotentiary  to  the  United  States  made 
a  foi-mal  protest,  in  the  name  of  his  government,  against  the 
joint  resolution  passed  by  Congress,  "for  the  annexation  of 
Texas  to  the  United  States,"  which  he  chose  to  regard  as  a 
\iolation  of  tlie  rights  of  Mexico,  and,  in  consequence  of  it, 
he  demanded  his  passports.  He  was  informed  that  the  gov- 
-•niment  of  the  United  States  did  not  consider  this  joint  res- 
ouition  as  a  violation  of  any  of  the  rights  of  Mexico,  or  that 
it  afforded  any  just  cause  of  offence  to  his  government ;  that  the 
Kepublic  of  Texas  was  an  independent  Power,  owing  no  alle- 
giance to  Mexico,  and  constituting  no  part  of  her  territory  or 
riglitful  sovereignty  and  jurisdiction.  He  was  also  assured 
tliat  it  was  the  sincere  desire  of  this  government  to  maintain 
with  that  of  Mexico  relations  of  peace  and  good  understand- 
ing. That  functionary,  however,  notwithstanding  these  rep- 
resentations and  assurances,  abruptly  terminated  his  mission, 
and  shortly  afterwards  left  the  country.     Our  envoy  extra- 


168 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


fl845 


ordinary  and  minister  jilcnipotcntiary  to  Mexico  was  refused 
all  official  intercourse  wi>H  that  govi-rnment,  and,  after  re- 
maining several  months,  by  the  permission  of  his  own  gov- 
ernment he  returned  to  the  United  States.  Thus,  by  the  acts 
of  Mexico,  all  diplomatic  intercourse  between  the  two  coun- 
tries was  suspended. 

Since  that  time  Mexico  has,  until  recently,  occupied  an  at- 
titude of  hostility  toward  the  United  States— has  been  mar- 
shalling and  organizing  armies,  issuing  proclamations,  and 
avowing  the  intention  to  n.ake  war  on  the  United  States, 
either  by  an  open  declaration,  or  by  invading  Texas.     Both 
the  Congress  and  cc^vention  of  the  people  of  Texas  invited 
this  Government  to  send  an  army  into  that  territory,  to  pro- 
tect and  defend  them  against  the  menaced  attack.     The  mo- 
ment the  terms  of  annexation,  oflered  by  the  United  States, 
were  accepted  by  Texas,  the  latter  became  so  far  a  part  of  our 
own  country,  as  to  make  it  our  duty  to  afford  such  protection 
and  defence.  1  therefore  deemed  it  proper,  as  a  precautionary  . 
measure,  to  order  a  strong  stjuadron  to  the  coasts  of  Mexico, 
and  to  concentrate  an  efficient  military  force  on  the  western 
frontier  of  Texas.     Our  army  was  ordered  to  take  position  in 
the  country  between  the  Nueces  and  the  Del  Norte,   and 
to  repel  any  invasion  of  the  Texan  territory  which   might 
be  attempted  by  the  Mexican  forces.     Our  squadron  in  the 
gulf  was  ordered  to  cooperate  with  the  army.     But  thou'gh 
our  army  and  navy   were  placed  in  a  position  to   defend 
our  own    and    the   rights    of    Texas,    they  were   ordered 
to  commit  no  act  of  hostility  against  Mexico,  unless  she  de- 
clared war,  or  yras  herself  the  aggressor,  by  striking  the  first 
blow.     The  result  has  been  that  Mexico  has  made  no  aggres- 
sive movement,  and  our  military  and  naval  commanders  have 
executed  their  orders  with  such  discretion,  that  the  peace  of 
the  two  repubUcs  has  not  been  disturbed. 

Texas  had  declared  her  independence,  and  maintained  it  by 
her  arms  for  more  than  nine  years.     She  has  had  an  organ- 


.ii<wi»jiwrr^'J'^«J^w<iWwiriw»jJr''w.tim'fa-ttfaja'- 


••iuj^i-"^?,  gte^JivstSHva;''' 


fl845 

was  refused 
lid,  after  re- 
us own  gov- 
8,  by  the  acts 
le  two  coun- 

jupied  an  at- 
8  been  mar- 
mations,  and 
nited  States, 
'cxas.     Both 
fexas  invited 
itory,  to  pro- 
k.     Tlie  mo- 
nited  States, 
a  part  of  our 
,ch  protection 
precautionary  , 
ts  of  Mexico, 
I  the  western 
ke  position  in 
I  Norte,   and 
which   might 
ladron  in  the 
But  thou'gh 
m  to   defend 
ivcre   ordered 
inless  she  de- 
iking  the  first 
de  no  aggres- 
manders  have 
the  peace  of 

lintained  it  by 
lad  an  organ- 


'■\.^n-1i>i  i-'«i|ii.,i|v|i.  ii,.i.    iinmi^niii,. 


tW^ii^tfrf.ll^WW.^'WM;'!': 


1845.] 


FinST   ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


169 


ized  government  in  successful  operation  during  that  period, 
ller  separate  existence,  as  an  independent  state,  had  been 
recognized  by  tlie  United  States  and  tiie  principal  powers  of 
Eui()j)e.  Treaties  of  commerce  and  navigation  had  been 
concluded  with  her  by  different  nations,  and  it  had  become 
niaiiifest  to  the  whole  world  that  any  fiirther  attempt  on  the 
part  of  Mexico  to  conquer  l^er,  or  overthrow  her  government. 
Mould  be  vain.  Even  Mexico  herself  had  become  satisfied  of 
tills  fact;  and  whilst  the  question  of  annexation  was  pending 
before  tiio  people  of  Texas,  during  the  pivst  summer,  the  gov- 
ernment of  Mexico,  by  a  formal  act,  agreed  to  recognize  the 
independence  of  Texas  on  condition  that  she  would  not  an- 
nex herself  to  any  otlier  power.  The  agreement  to  acknowl- 
edge the  Independence  of  Texas,  whetlier  with  or  without 
this  condition,  is  conclusive  against  Mexico.  The  independ- 
ence of  Texas  is  a  fact  conceded  by  Mexico  herself,  and  she 
liiid  no  right  or  autliority  to  prescribe  restrictions  as  to  the 
form  of  government  which  Texas  might  afterwards  choose  to 
assume. 

But  though  Mexico  cannot  complain  of  the  United  States 
on  account  of  the  annexation'of  Texas,  it  is  to  be  regretted 
that*  serious  causes  of  misunderstanding  between  the  two 
countries  continue  to  exist,  growing  out  of  unredressed  inju- 
ries inllicted  by  the  Mexican  authorities  and  people  on  the 
persons  and  property  of  citizens  of  the  United  States,  through 
a  long  series  of  yeare.  Mexico  has  admitted  these  injuries, 
but  has  neglected  and  refused  to  repair  them.  Such  was  the 
character  of  the  wrongs,  and  such  the  insults  repeatedly  of- 
fered to  American  citkens  and  the  American  flag  by  Mexico, 
in  palpable  violation  of  the  laws  of  nations  and  the  treaty 
between  the  two  countries  of  the  fifth  of- April,  1831,  that 
they  have  been  repeatedly  brought  to  the  notice  of  Congress 
by  my  predecessors.  As  early  as  the  8th  of  February,  1837, 
the  President  of  the  United  States  declared,  in  a  message  to 
Congress,  that  "  the  length  of  time  since  some  of  the  injuries 

a 


iro 


JAMES   KNOX    POLK. 


11845. 


have  been  committed,  the  repeated  and  unavailing  applica- 
tions for  redress,  the  wanton  character  of  some  of  the  out- 
rages upon  the  persons  and  property  of  our  citizens,  upon  tiio 
officers  and  flag  of  the  United  States,  independent  of  recent 
insults  to  this  government  and  people  by  the  late  Extraordi- 
nary Mexican  Minister,  would  justify  in  the  eyes  of  all  na- 
tions immediate  war." 

He  did  not,  however,  recommend  an  immediate  resort  to 
this  extreme  measure,  which,  he  declared,  "  should  not  be 
used  by  just  and  generous  nations,  confiding  in  their  strength 
for  injuries  committed,  if  it  can  be  honorably  avoided  ;"  but, 
in  a  spirit  of  forbearance,  proposed  that  another  demand  be 
made  on  Mexico  for  that  redress  ■^hich  had  been  so  long  and 
unjustly  withheld.  In  these  views,  committees  of  the  two 
Houses  of  Congress,  in  reports  made  to  their  respective  bodies, 
concurred.  Since  these  proceedings,  more  than  eight  years 
have  elapsed,  during  which,  in  addition  to  the  wrongs  then 
complained  of,  others  of  an  aggravated  character  have  been 
committed  on  the  persons  and  property  of  our  citizens.  A 
special  agent  was  sent  to  Mexico  in  the  summer  of  1838, 
with  full  authority  to  make  another  and  final  demand  for  re- 
dress. The  demand  was  made;  the  Mexican  government 
promised  to  repair  the  wrongs  of  which  we  complained ;  and 
after  much  delay,  a  treaty  of  indemnity  with  that  view  was 
concluded  between  the  two  Powers  on  the  11th  of  April, 
1839,  and  was  duly  ratified  by  both  governments.  By  this 
treaty  a  joint  commission  was  created  to  adjudicate  and  de- 
cide (HI  the  clums  of  American  citizens  on  the  government  of 
Mexico.  The  commission  was  organized  at  Washington  on 
the  26th  day  of  August,  1840.  Their  time  was  limited  to 
eighteen  months ;  at  the  expiration  of  which,  they  bad  adju- 
dicated and  decided  claims  amounting  to  two  millions  twenty- 
six  thousand  one  hundred  and  thirty-nine  dollars  and  sixty- 
eight  cents  in  favor  of  citizens  of  the  United  States  against 
the  Mexican  government,  leaving  a  large  amount  of  cluma 


'''^■B^^'*'' 


•i^inittie'fmi»Mtmi'm^i0»iSMausMim-^.if^^^  • 


1.1845. 

ailing  npplica- 
le  of  the  out- 
Kens,  upon  tiie 
lent  of  recent 
ate  Extraordi- 
yea  of  all  na< 

liate  resort  to 
should  not  be 
their  strength 
.voided ;"  but, 
er  demand  bo 
en  so  long  and 
ea  of  the  two 
pective  bodies, 
m  eight  years 
B  wrongs  then 
iter  have  beea 
ir  citizens.  A 
imer  of  1838, 
lemand  for  rc- 
m  government 
nplained;  and 
that  view  was 
11th  of  April, 
lents.  By  this 
dicate  and  de- 
government  of 
Washington  on 
«vas  limited  to 
they  had  adju- 
lillions  twenty- 
lars  and  sixty- 
States  against 
,ount  of  clfuma 


'■  -inniw-'j .  I  iiiiiiiii>LimjinMii'i»<w><wi 


1845.J 


Finar  annual  messacf.. 


m 


\indecided.  Of  the  latter,  the  Aniorioan  commissioners  had 
decided  in  favor  of  our  citizens,  claims  amounting  to  nine  hun- 
dred and  twenty-eight  thousand  six  lumdred  and  twenty-seven 
dollais  and  eighty-eight  cents,  which  were  left  unacted  on  i)y 
tlie  umpire  authorized  by  the  treaty.  Still  further  claims, 
amo  mting  to  between  three  and  four  millions  of  dollars,  were 
submitted  to  the  board  too  bite  to  l)e  considered,  and  wcro 
k'i't  undisposed  of. 

The  sum  of  two  millions  twenty-six  thousand  one  hundred 
and  thirty-nine  dollars  and  sixty-eight  cents,  decided  by  tlio 
board,  was  n  liquidated  and  ascertained  debt  due  by  Mexico' 
to  the  claimants,  and  there  was  no  justifiable  reason  for  de- 
laying its  payment  according  to  the  terms  of  the  treaty.  It 
was  not,  however,  paid.  Mexico  applied  for  further  indul- 
gence ;  and,  in  that  spirit  of  liberality  and  forbearance  which 
has  ever  marked  the  policy  of  the  United  States  toward  that 
republic,  the  request  was  granted ;  and,  on  the  thirtieth  of 
.Tanuarj',  1843,  a  new  treaty  was  concluded.  By  this  treaty 
it  was  provided,  that  the  interest  due  on  the  awards  in  favor 
of  claimants  under  the  convention  of  the  eleventh  of  April, 
1839,  should  be  paid  on  the  thirtieth  of  April,  1843;  and 
that  "  the  principal  of  the  said  awards,  and  the  interest  aris- 
ing thereon,  shall  be  paid  in  five  years,  in  equal  instalments 
every  three  months,  the  said  term  of  five  years  to  commence 
on  the  thirtieth  day  of  April,  1S43,  as  aforesaid."  The  inter- 
est due  on  the  thirtieth  day  of  April,  1843,  and  the  three 
first  of  the  twenty  instalments,  have  been  paid.  Seventeen 
of  these  instalments  remain  unpaid,  seven  of  which  are  now 
due. 

The  claims  which  were  left  undecided  by  the  joint  commis- 
sion, amounting  to  more  than  three  millions  of  dollars,  to- 
gether with  other  claims  for  spoliations  on  the  property  of 
our  citizens,  were  subsequently,  presented  to  the  Mexican 
government  for  payment,  and  were  so  far  recognized,  that  a 
treaty,  providing  foi*  their  examination  and  settlement  by  a 


172 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1845. 


joint  commission,  was  conchulfd  atul  sijjrncd  at  Mexico  <m  tl.e 
twentieth  day  of  November,  1843.     Tliis  trn-.ty  wius  ralilkd 
by  tbo  United  SUites,  with  certain  amendmentu,  to  wliicli  no 
just  exception  could  have  been  Uiken ;  but  it  has  not  yet  ve- 
ecivcd  the  rutitication  of  the  Mexican  government.     In  tin- 
meantime,  our  citizens  who  sull'ered  great  losses,  and  some  of 
whom  have  been  reduced  from  alHuence  to  bankruptcy,  are 
without  rem(idy,  unless  their  rij.rhls  be  enforced  by  their  gov- 
ernment.    Such  a  continued  and  unprovolced  series  of  wrongs 
could  never  have  been  toierated  by  the  United  States,  had 
.they  been  committed  by  one  of  the  principal  nations  of  Eu- 
rope.    Mexic©  was,  however,  a  neighboring  sister  republic, 
which,  following  our  example,  had  achieved  her  independ- 
ence, and  for  whose  success  and  prosperitj-  all  our  sympathies 
were  early  enlisted.     The  United  Slates  were  the  first  to  rec- 
ognize her  independence,  and  to  receive  her  into  the  family 
of  nations,  and  have  ever  been  desirous  of  cultivating  with 
her  a  good  understanding.      We  have,  therefore,  borne  the 
repeated  wrongs  she  has  committed,  with  great  patience,  in 
the  hope  that  a  returning  sense  of  justice  would  ultimately 
guide  her  councils,  and  that  we  might,  if  possible,  honorably 
avoid  any  liostile  collision  with  her. 

Without  the  previous  authority  of  Congress,  the  Executive 
possessed  no  power  to  adopt  or  enforce  adequate  remedies 
for  the  injuries  we  had  suffered,  or  to  do  more  than  be  pre- 
pared to  repel  the  threatened  aggression  on  the  part  of  Mex- 
ico. After  our  army  and  navy  had  remained  on  the  frontier 
and  coasts  of  Mexico  for  many  woeks,  without  any  hostile 
movement  on  her  part,  though  her  menaces  were  continued,  I 
deemed  it  important  to  put  an  end,  if  possible,  to  this  state  of 
things.  With  this  view,  I  caused  steps  to  be  taken,  in  the 
month  of  September  last,  to  Ascertain  distinctly,  and  in  an 
authentic  form,  what  the  designs  of  the  Mexican  goveiament 
were ;  whether  it  was  their  intention  to  declare  war,  or  invade 
Texas,  or  whether  they  were  disposed  to  adjust  and  settle,  in 


[1845. 

^Icxico  (111  ll.ii 
y  wius  mtifit'd    ■> 
,  to  wliieh  no 
a8  not  yet  re- 
u'lit.     Jn  tho 
,  and  sonio  of 
nkruptcy,  luo 
by  their  gov- 
ries  of  wrontfs 
d  States,  Imd 
lations  of  Eu- 
ister  republii', 
her  indt'peiid- 
)ur  syinputhios 
,he  first  to  rec- 
into  the  family 
ultivating  willi 
ore,  borne  tho 
:at  patience,  in 
)uld  ultimately 
ible,  honorably 

,  the  Executive 
quate  remedies 
•6  than  be  pre- 
le  part  of  Mex- 

on  the  frontier 
out  any  hostile 
jre  continued,  I 

to  this  state  of 
be  taken,  in  the 
ctly,  and  in  an 
:an  goveimncnt 
e  war,  or  invade 
ist  and  settle,  in 


■■tSfJgtMsJ.''V-' 


1840.J 


FinST    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


178 


an  amicable  maiiii.r,  tho  pending  differences  between  (he  two 
countries.     On  the  ninth  of  JNovember  an  oHicial  answ.M-  was 
received,  that  the  Mexican  jr„vernment  consented  to  renew 
the  (lipluniatic  relations  which  had  been  suspendtid  in  March 
last,  and  for  that  purpose  w(!ie  williiijf  to  accredit  a  minister 
fiom  the  United  Slates.     With  n  sincere  desire  to  preserve 
J)eace,  and  restore  reiaiions  of  good  understanding  between 
the  two  republics,  I  waived  all  ceremony  as  to  the  manner  of 
renewing  diplomatic  inten  ourse  between  them  ;  and,  assuming 
tile  initiative,  on  the  tenth  of  November  a  distinguished  citi^ 
«en  of  Louisiana  was  apjiointed   Knvoy  ivxtraordiiiary  and 
Minister  Plenipotentiary  to  Mexico,  clotiu-d  with  full  powers 
to  adjust,  and  definitively  settle,  all  pending  dilleiences  l)c- 
tweeft  the  two  couiitrtes,  including  those  of  boundary  between 
Mexico  and  tho  State  of  Toxas.     The  minister  appointed  has 
set  out  on  his  mission,  and  is  probably  by  tliis  tiiiuf  near  the 
Mexican  capital,     lie  law  been  instructed  to  bring  the  nego- 
tiation with  which  he  is  charged  to  a  conclusion  at  the  earlii-st 
practicable  p.n-iod ;  which,  it  it)  expected,  will  be  in  time  to 
enable  me  to  communicate  the  result  to  Congress  durimr  the 
present  session.     Until  that  result  is  known,  1  forbear  to  rec- 
ommend to  Congress  such  ulterior  measures  of  redress  for 
the  wrongs  and  injuries  we  have  so  long  borne,  as  it  would 
have  been  proper  to  make  had  no  such  negotiation  been  insti- 
tuted. 

Congress  appropriated  at  the  last  session  the  sum  of  two 
hundred  and  seventy-five  thousand  dollars  for  the  payment 
of  the  April  and  July  instalments  of  the  Mexican  indemnities 
for  the  year  1844  :  "  Provided  it  shall  be  ascertained  to  the 
satisfaction  of  the  American  government  that  the  said  instal- 
ments have  been  paid  by  the  Mexican  government  to  the  agent 
appointed  by  the  United  States  to  receive  the  same  in  Tuch 
manner  as  to  discharge  all  claim  on  the  Mexican  government, 
and  said  agent  to  be  delinquent  in  remitting  the  money  to 
the  United  States." 


11 


llfi 


f  ¥'1, 


174 


JAMRS    KNOX    POT.K. 


[1845. 


V(l 


'I'lio  unHottlrd  state  of  our  rrlntiono  witli  ^(oxico  hnn  iii- 
,,,lv.-(l  this  Mil.jcct  in  much  mystpry.     The  tirxl  i u forma ti<m. 
in  an  authrntic  form,  from  thu  agent  of  the  United  Slates, 
apimiiitod  und.T  tli.^  administration  (.f  my  predecpssor.  was 
reivivcd  at  the  Htate  l)ei)artment  on  tiu^  ninth  of  Novenilur 
last.     This  is  contained  in  a  letter  dated  the   17th  October, 
addressed  by  him  to  one  of  our  citizens  then  in  Mexici.,  with 
the  view  of  having   it   communicated    to  that  department. 
Krom  this  it  appears  that  the  agent,  on  the  20th  of  Septem- 
bcr,  1844,  gave  ii  receipt  to  the  treasury  of  Mexico  fur  lli.- 
n mount  of  the  April  and  July  instalments  of  the  indemnity. 
In  the  same  oomnnmieation,  however,  he  asserts  that  be  had 
not  received  a  single  dollar  in  cash,  but  that  ho  hoUls^su.li 
securities  as  warranted  him  at  the  time  "in  giving  the  receipt, 
and  entertains  no  doubt  but  that  he  will  eventually  obtam  tho 
money.     As  these  instalments  appear  never  to  have  been  ac- 
tually paid  bv  the  government  of  Mexico  to  the  agent,  and 
ns  that  government  has  not  therefore  been  released  so  as  to 
discharge  the  claim,  I  do  not  feel  myself  warranted  in  direct- 
ing payment  to  be  made  to  the  claimants  out  of  the  treasury, 
without  further  legislation.     Their  case  is,  undoubtedly,  ono 
of  much  hardship  ;  and  it  remains  for  Congress  to  decide 
whether  any,  and  what,  relief  ought  to  be  granted  to  them. 
Our  minister  to  Mexico  has  been  instructed  to  ascertain  tho 
facts  of  the  case  from  tho  Mexican  government,  in  an  authen- 
tic and  official  form,  and  report  tho  result  with  as  little  delay 

as  possible. 

My  attention  was  early  directed  to  the  negotiation,  which, 
on  the  4th  of  March  last,  I  found  pending  at  Washington  be- 
tween the  United  States  and  Great  Britain,  on  the  subject  of 
the  Oregon  territory.  Three  several  attempts  had  been  pre- 
\;jously  made  to  settle  the  questions  in  dispute  between  tho 
two  countries,  by  negotiation,  upon  the  principle  of  compro- 
mise ;  but  each  had  proved  unsuccessful. 

These  negotiations  took  place  at  London,  in  the  years  1818, 


■  i.L 


rjg^si)^ijajtiiia'.„it..j;;y>"'''«iWi'baia#i^ 


"Sl^^^. 


[184',. 


1845.J 


KIRST    ANNUAL    MKS18A(;ii:. 


m 


^(('xico  hns  iii- 
y.1  iht'ormiitiiiii, 

rnitt'd  StiiUs, 
•I'dfcossor,  WMS 
\\  of  Ni)venili(  r 

17lh  Oclotitr, 

II  Ml'Xion,  villi 

it  cU'piirtniiiil. 
3th  of  Scptcni- 
Mrxico  fur  tilt" 
the  indcniiiity. 
rts  that  he  liMtl 
t  he  holds  such 
ing  the  rt'Cfi|>t, 
unlly  obtuin  tlio 
3  have  bfcn  ik- 
the  iigent,  and 
eleased  ao  ns  to 
•anted  in  dirort- 
of  the  treasury, 
idoubtedly,  one 
^rcss  to  decide 
ranted  to  tbi'm. 
to  ascertain  the 
it,  in  an  authen- 
;h  as  little  delay 

jotiation,  which, 
Washington  be- 
n  the  subject  of 
3  had  been  pre- 
itc  between  the 
;iple  of  compro- 

1  the  years  1818, 


1824,  and  182G  ;  tlie  two  tirsl  under  tluMidminintrution  of  Mr. 
Miinruc,  and  the  last  under  that  of  Mr.  Adams,  'llie  nrgotia- 
liiiiiof  iHlH  having  failed  to  accomplish  ilsohji'ct,  resulled  in 
Ihf  icnveiituin  of  tiie  twentieth  of  October  of  that  year.  Hy  the 
liiini  article  of  that  convention,  it  was  "  agrct'd,  tiial  any  coun- 
try that  may  be  claimed  by  either  i)arty  on  the  northwest  coast 
of  America,  westward  of  the  Stony  mountains,  shall,  togcihcr 
V.  iih  its  harbors,  bays,  and  creeks,  and  the  navigation  of  all 
)  ivcrs  w  itiiin  tiie  same,  bo  free  and  open  for  the  term  of  ten 
years  from  tl>e  date  of  the  signature  of  the  present  conven- 
tion, to  the  vessels,  citizens,  and  subjects  of  the  two  I'owers  ; 
it  being  well  understood  that  this  agreement  is  not  to  be  con- 
strued to  the  prejudice  of  any  claim  which  either  of  the  two 
higli  contracting  parties  may  have  to  any  part  of  the  said 
country,  nor  shall  it  be  taken  to  aifect  the  claims  of  any  other 
Power  or  State  to  any  part  of  the  said  country  ;  tin*  only  ob- 
ject of  the  high  contracting  parties  in  that  respect  being,  to 
prevent  disputes  and  difl'erences  among  tiiemselves." 

The  negotiation  of  1624  was  productive  of  no  result,  and 
the  convention  of  1818  was  left  unchanged. 

Tho  negotiation  of  1826  having  also  failed  to  effect  an  nd- 
justmcMit  by  compromise,  resulted  in  the  convention  of  Au- 
gust tho  sixth,  1S27,  by  which  it  was  agreed  to  continue  in 
force,  for  an  indetinite  period,  the  provisions  of  the  third  ar- 
ticle of  the  convention  of  the  twentieth  of  October,  1818  ;  and 
it  was  further  provided,  "  that  it  shall  be  competent,  however, 
to  either  of  the  contracting  parties,  in  case  either  should  think 
fit,  at  any  time  after  the  twentieth  of  October,  1828,  on  giv- 
ing due  notice  of  twelve  months  to  the  other  contracting 
party,  to  annul  and  abrogate  this  convention ;  and  it  shall,  in 
such  case,  be  accordingly  entirely  annulled  and  abrogated 
after  the  expiration  of  the  said  term  of  service."  In  these 
attempts  to  adjust  the  controversy,  the  parallel  of  forty-ninth 
degree  of  north  latitude  had  been  offered  by  the  United 
States  to  Great  Britain,  and  in  those  of  1818  and  1826,  with 


176 


JAMES   KNOX    POLK. 


[1845. 


a  further  concession  of  the  free  navigation  of  the  Columljia 
River  south  of  that  latitude.  The  paniUcl  of  the  forty-ninth 
degree,  from  the  Rocky  MounUiins  to  its  intersection  of  the 
northcastcrnmost  branch  of  the  Columbia,  and  thence  down 
the  channel  of  that  river  to  the  sea,  had  been  offered  by  Great 
Britain,  with  an  addition  of  a  small  detached  territory  nortli 
of  the  Columbia.  Each  of  these  propositions  had  been  re- 
jected by  the  parties  respectively. 

In  October,  1843,  the  Envoy  Extraordinary  and  Minister 
Plenipotentiary  of  the  United  States  in  London,  was  author- 
ized to  make  a  similar  offer  to  those  made  in  1818  and  1820. 
Thus  stood  the  question,  when  the  negotiation  was  shortly 
afterwards  transferred  to  Washington ;  and,  on  the  twenty- 
third  of  August,  1844,  was  formally  opened,  under  the  direc- 
tion of  my  immediate  predecessor.  Like  all  the  previous 
negotiations,  it  was  based  upon  the  principles  of  "  compro- 
mise ;"  and  the  avowed  purpose  of  the  parties  was,  "  to  treat 
of  the  respective  claims  of  the  two  countries  to  the  Oregon 
territory,  with  a  view  to  establish  a  permanent  boundary  be- 
tween them  Avestward  of  the  Rocky  Mountains  to  the  Pacific 
Ocean."  Accordingly,  on  the  twenty-sixth  of  August,  .844, 
the  British  Plenipotentiary  offered  to  divide  tV.e  Oregon  terri- 
tory by  the  49th  parallel  of  north  latitvdc,  from  the  Rocky 
ilountains  to  the  point  of  its  intersection  wiUi  the  northeast- 
ernmost  branch  of  the  Columbia  River,  and  t  lence  down  that 
river  to  the  sea ;  leaving  the  free  navigation  of  the  river  to 
be  enjoyed  in  common  by  both  parties— the  country  south  of 
this  line  to  belong  to  the  United  States,  and  that  north  of 
it  to  (heat  Britain.  At  the  same  time,  he  proposed,  in  addi- 
tion, to  yield  to  the  United  States  a  detached  territory,  north 
of  the  Columbia,  extending  along  the  Pacific  and  the  Straits 
of  Fuca,  from  Bulfinch's  Harbor  inclusive,  to  Hood's  Canal, 
and  to  make  free  to  the  United  States  any  port  or  ports  south 
of  latitude  49  degrees,  which  they  might  desire,  either  on  the 
mm  land,  or  on  Quadra  and  Vancouver's  fsland.    With  the 


«<»y'a4i^^sy^.^..j'tA[^fty«<ggj^*i''.^^*^.''?*^ft'<»^^ 


[1845. 

the  Coluniljia 
.he  forty-ninth 
section  of  the 

thence  down 
Fered  by  Great 
territory  nortli 

had  been  re- 

and  Minister 
n,  was  author- 
318  and  1820. 
m  was  shortly 
n  the  twenty- 
ider  the  direc- 

the  previous 
3  of  "  compro- 
was,  "to treat 
to  the  Oregon 

boundary  bc- 
I  to  the  Pacific 
August,  .844, 
i  Oregon  terri- 
•om  the  Rocky 
the  northeast- 
snce  down  that 
Df  the  river  to 
iUntry  south  of 

that  north  of 
posed,  in  addi- 
,erritory,  north 
md  the  Straits 
Hood's  Canal, 
or  ports  south 
5,  either  on  the 
nd.    With  the 


'  ^laM^MpP''^ ' 


1845.] 


T^'i*!"'"  '':1$^1'?-  *— "' 


FIRST    ANNUAL   MESSAGE. 


•m 


exception  of  the  free  ports,  this  was  the  same  offer  which  had 
been  made  by  the  British  and  rejected  by  the  American  Gov- 
ewiment,  in  the  negotiation  of  1826.  This  proposition  was 
properly  rejected  by  the  American  Plenipotentiary  on  the  day 
it  was  submitted.  This  was  the  only  proposition  of  com- 
promise offered  by  the  British  Plenipotentiary.  The  propo- 
.sition  on  the  part  of  Great  Britain  having  been  rejected,  the 
British  Plenipotentiary  requested  that  a  proposal  should  be 
made  by  the  United  States  for  "  an  equitable  adjustment  of 
the  question." 

When  I  came  into  office,  I  found  this  to  be  the  state  of 
the  negotiation.  Though  entertaining  the  settled  conviction 
that  the  British  pretension's  of  title  could  not  be  maintained 
to  any  portion  of  the  Oregon  territory  upon  any  principle  of 
public  law  recognized  by  nations,  yet,  iu  deference  to  what 
had  been  done  by  my  predecessors,  and  especially  in  consid- 
eration that  propositions  of  compromise  had  been  thrice  made 
by  two  preceding  admiuistr.itions,  to  adjust  the  question  on 
the  paviil'.el  of  forty-nine  degrees,  and  in  two  of  them  yield- 
ing to  Great  Britain  the  free  navigation  of  the  Columbia,  and 
that  the  pending  negotiation  had  been  commenced  on  the 
basis  of  compromise,  I  deemed  it  to  be  my  duty  not  abruptly 
to  break  it  off.  In  consideration,  too,  that  under  the  con- 
ventions of  1818  and  1827,  the  citizens  and  subjects  of  the 
two  powers  held  a  joint  occupancy  of  the  country,  I  was  in- 
duced to  make  another  effort  to  settle  this  long  pendint,'  mn- 
tioversy  in  the  spirit  of  moderation  which  had  given  birth  to 
the  renewed  discussion.  A  proposition  wuis  accordingly  made, 
which  was  rejected  by  the  British  Plenipotentiary,  who,  willi- 
out  submitting  any  other  proposition,  suffered  tl)e  negotiation 
on  his  part  to  drop,  expressing  his  trust  that  the  United  States 
ifould  offer  what  he  saw  fit  to  call  "  some  further  proposal 
for  the  .settlement  of  the  Oregon  question,  more  consistent 
with  fairness  and  equity  and  with  the  reasonable  expectations 
of 'the  British  government."  The  proposition  thus  ofifered 
8» 


i¥»3¥-ffiM'AJi**«Wt,iil-Y?-''''*'''''"' 


178 


JAMES   KNOX  FOLK. 


[1845. 


and  rejected,  repeated  the  offer  of  the  parallel  of  forty-nine 
dci^rces  of  north  latitude,  whicli  had  been  made  by  two  pre- 
ceding administrations,  but  without  proposing  to  surrender 
to  Great  Britain,  as  they  had  done,  the  free  navigation  of  the 
Columbia  River.  Tl\c  right  of  any  foreign  power  to  the  free 
navigation  of  any  of  our  rivers,  through  the  heart  of  our 
country,  was  one  which  1  was  unwilling  to  concede.  It  also 
embraced  a  provision  to  make  free  to  Great  Britain  any  port 
or  ports  on  the  cap  of  Quadra  and  Vancouver's  Island,  south 
of  this  parallel.  Had  this  been  a  new  question,  coming  un 
der  discussion  for  the  first  time,  this  proposition  would  not 
have  been  made.  The  extraordinary  and  wholly  inadmissible 
demands  of  the  British  government,  and  the  rejection  of  the 
proposition  made  in  deference  alone  to  what  had  been  done 
by  my  predecessors,  and  the  implied  obligation  which  their 
acts  seemed  to  impose,  afford  satisfactory  evidence  that  no 
compromise  which  tlic  United  States  ought  to  accept,  can  be 
effected.  With  this  conviction,  the  proposition  of  compro- 
mise which  had  been  made  and  rejected,  was,  by  my  direction, 
subsequently  withdrawn,  and  our  title  to  the  whole  Oregon 
territory  asserted,  and,  as  is  believ  ad,  maintained  by  irrefraga- 
ble facts  and  arguments. 

Tl>e  civilized  world  will  see  in  these  proceedings  a  spirit  of 
liberal  concession  on  the  part  of  the  Ualced  States ;  and  tliis 
government  will  be  relieved  from  all  responsibility  which  may 
follow  the  fiiilure  to  settle  the  c jntroversy. 

All  attempts  at  compromise  having  failed,  it  becomes  the 
duty  of  Cong'-ess  to  consider  what  measures  it  may  be  proper 
tt)  adopt  for  the  security  and  protection  of  our  citizens  now 
iniiabiting,  or  who  may  hereafter  inhabit,  Oregon,  and  for 
the  maintenance  of  our  just  title  to  that  ten-itory.  In  adopt- 
ing measures  for  this  purpose,  care  should  be  taken  that 
nothing  be  done  to  violate  the  stipulations  of  the  convention 
of  1827,"  which  is  still  in  force.  The  faith  of  treaties  in  their 
letter  aud  spirit,  has  ever  been,  and,  I  trust,  will  ever  be, 


' 


^<?*53Pr?T»P'<"" 


^4^v-;.t|H.;vs»a;a»<Air'v^'J-^i{i;.? 


I 


[1845. 

of  forty-nine 
)  by  two  pre- 

to  surrender 

« 

iiiation  of  the 
'cr  to  the  free 
heart  of  our 
cede.  It  also 
itain  any  port 
Island,  south 
1,  coming  un- 
ion would  not 
y  inadmissible 
jjection  of  the 
ad  been  done 
ti  which  their 
lence  that  no 
iccept,  can  be 
n  of  compro- 
r  my  direction, 
whole  Oregon 
1  by  irrefraga- 

igs  a  spirit  of 
ates ;  and  this 
ity  which  may 

t  becomes  the 
may  be  proper 
•  citizens  now 
sgon,  and  for 
•y.  In  adopt- 
be  taken  that 
he  convention 
reaties  in  their 
t,  will  eyer  be. 


"1 


??:ts;.rg-Afw.i,;rr^ 


lS4o.J 


FIRST   ANNUAL   MESSAGE. 


179 


scrupulously  observed  by  the  United  States.  Under  that 
convention,  a  year's  notice  is  required  to  be  given  by  either 
party  to  the  other,  before  the  joint  occupancy  shall  terminate, 
and  before  either  can  rightfully  assert  or  exercise  exclusive 
jurisdiction  over  any  portion  of  the  territory.  This  notice  it 
would,  in  my  judgment,  be  proper  to  give  ;  and  I  recommend 
that  provision  be  made  by  law  for  giving  it  accordingly,  and 
terminating,  in  this  manner,  tJie  convention  of  the  "sixth  of 
August,  1827. 

It  will  become  proper  for  Congress  to  determine  what  leg- 
islation they  can,  in  the  mean  time,  adopt,  without  violatin°a 
this  convention.     Beyond  all  question,  the  protection  of  ou° 
laws  and  our  jurisdiction,  civil  and  criminal,  ought  to  be  im- 
mediately extended  over  our  citizens  in  Oregon.     They  have 
had  just  cause  to  complain  of  our  long  neglect  in  this  partic- 
ular, and  ha? e  in  consequence  been  compelled,  for  their  own 
security  and  protection,  to  establish  a  provisional  government 
for  themselves.     Strong  in  their  allegiance  and  ardent  in  their 
attachments  to  the  United  States,  they  have  been  thus  cast 
npon  their  own  resources.     They  are  anxious  that  our  laws 
should  be  extended  over  them,  and  I  recommend  that  this 
be  done  by  Congress  with  as  little  delay  as  possible,  in  the 
full  extent  to  which  the  British  Parliament  have  proceeded  in 
regard  to  British  subjects  in  that  territory,  by  tlieir  act  of 
July  the  second,  1821,  "  for  regulating  the  fur-trade,  and  es- 
tablishing a  criminal  and  civil  jurisdiction  within  certain  parts 
of  North  America."     By  this  act  Great  Britain  extended  her 
laws  and  jurisdiction,  civil  and  criminal,  over  her  subjects, 
engaged  m  the  fur-trade  in  that  territory.     By  it,  the  courts 
of  the  province  of  Upper  Canada  were  empowered  to  take 
cognizance  of  causes  civil  and  criminal.    Justices  of  the  peace 
and  other  judicial  officers  were  authorized  to  be  appointed  in 
Oregon,  with  power  to  execute  all  process  issiung  from  the 
courts  .>f  that  province,  and  to  "  sit  and  hold  courts  of  record 
Cor  the  trial  of  criminal  offences   and   misdemeanors,"  not 


180 


/AMES    KWOX    POLK. 


[1845. 


made  the  subject  of  capital  punislimont,  and  dso  of  civil  caso., 
where  tlif  cause  of  nction  shall  not  "  t>xceed  in  value  tlu. 
amount  or  sum  of  two  hundred  pounds." 

Subsequent  to  the  date  of  this  act  of  Parliament,  a  grant 
was  made  fronv  the  "  British  crown,"  to  the  Hudson's  Bay 
(\.mp!iny  of  the  exclusive  trade  with  the  Indian  tribes  m  tiie 
Oiooon  tcrrRorv,  sul.j.ct  to  »  reservation  that  it  shall  not  op- 
eiate  to  the  exclusion  "  of  the  subjects  of  any  foreign  States 
who  under  oi"  bv  f.>rce  of  a»y  boavention  for  the  time  l>cir-, 
between  us  and  such  foreign  States  respectiveV.  may  be  -.n- 
titled  to,  and  sluill  be  engaged  in,  the  said  trade." 

It  is  much  to  be  regretted,  that,  while  under  this  act  Brit- 
ish subjects  have  enjoyed  the  protection  of  British  buvs  anu 
British  judicial  tribun,As  throughout  the  whole  of  Oregon. 
American  citizens,  in  the  same  territory,  have  enjoyed  no. 
such  protection  from  their  government.    At  th?  sarnie  time, 
the  result  illustrates  the  ckiracter  of  otir  people  and  their  in- 
stitutions.    In  spite  of  this  neglect,  they  have  multiplied  and 
their  number  is  rapidly  increasing  in  that  te.-rrtory      ihcy 
have  made  no  appeal  to  arms,  but  have  peacefully  fortified 
themselves  in  their  new  Iwmes,  by  the  adoption  of  republican 
institutions  for  themselves ;  furnishing  another  example  ot 
the  truth  that  self-government  b  mherent  in  the  American 
breast,  and  must  prevail.     It  is  due  to  them  that  they  should 
le  emb»-aced  and  protected  by  our  laws.  . 

It  is  deemed  important  that  our  laws  regulating  trade  and 
intercourse  with  the  Indian  tribes  cast  of  the  Rocky  Mount^ 
ains,  should  be  extended  to  sudv  tribes  as  dwell  beyond 

them.  .   , 

The  increasing  emigration  to  Oregon,  and  the  ome  and  pro- 
tection which  is  due  from  the  government  to.  its  citizens  m 
that  distant  region,  make  it  our  duty,  as  it  is  our  interest,  to 
cultivate  amicable  relations  with  the  Indian  tribes  of  that  ter- 
ritory For  this  purpose,  I  recommend  that  provision  be- 
made  for  estabUshing  an  Indian  agency,  and  such  suh-agca 


!j 


:--:  „:'3tfii!jjjjjKWS^'. ' 


[1845. 

of  civil  cases, 
in  vdiie  thi? 

ment,  a  grant 
luxlson's  Bay 
n  tribes  in  tlio 
t  shall  not  op- 
foreign  States 
lie  time  Ixiin^, 
r,  may  be  c.n- 
e." 

■  this  act  Brit- 
ritish  laws  and 
te  oi  Oregon^ 
;e  enjoyed  no 
li?  same  time, 
te  and  their  in- 
muUiplii^,  and 
Tritory.  They 
cefully  fortified 
n  of  republican 
er  example  of 
the  American 
liat  they  should 

ating  trade  and 
Rocky  Mount- 
dwell  beyond 

le  cei'e  a:nd  pro- 
,o.  its  citizens  in 
i  our  interest,  to 
■ibes  of  that  ter- 
at  provision  bo- 
such  suh-asca 


1845.J  FIRST    ANNUAL    MESSAGE.  IgJ 

j-  as  may  be  deemed  necessa,y.  beyond  the  Rocky  Mount- 

I'or  the  protection  of  emigrants  wlnlst  on  their  way  to  Or^ 
^g-..  aga,„st  the  attacks  of  the  Indian  tribes  occupyin'  iC 

nU,     of  .stockades  and  block-house  forts  be  erected  alo,  . 

u.  uMu,    route  between  our  frontier  settlements  on  the  M  ^ 

nun  and  the  Rocky  Mountains ;  and  that  an  adenu    e  fo  ee 

jiiiM  III  ine  same  territorv 

«   arge  number  of  wh.Ie  ships  in  the  Pacific,  but  few  of  t^^n 

and  l!r  .  .  r  ""'■  ■''^'"''•'"«"ts  in  that  distant  region 
.md  the  Ln,t<.d  States.  An  overland  mail  is  believed  S  be 
.n   n  y  p,j.t.cable  ;  and  the  importance  of  .stn^SI^J^ 

It  is  submitted  to  the  wisdom  of  Congress  to  determine 
|-^.ether  at  then- present  session,  and  unril  after  tl.t™? 
tion  0  the  year's  notice,  any  other  .measures  may  be  JZed  ' 
consistently  with  the  convention  of  1827  for  the  tn!?/ 
our^ights.  and  the  government  and  p.;LSm  Z21 
m  Oregpn.  That  .t  will  ultimately  be  wise  and  prop^  o 
make  hberal  grants  of  land  to  the  patriotic  pioneers  whl 

.hether  .hey  „ai  *„;„  .^,  g  Jll'trf  j' J'^^™^.' 


182 


JAMES  KNOX   POLK. 


[1845 


.ton  between  the  United  States  and  Great  Britain,  shall  Imve 
ceased  to  exist.  Avould  be  to  doubt  the  justice  of  Congress  , 
but,  pending  the  year's  notice,  it  is  worthy  of  considenvUon 
whether  a  stipulation  to  this  effect  may  be  made,  consistently 
with  the  spirit  of  that  convention. 

The  recommendations  which  1  have  made,  as  to  the  best 
manner  of  securin-  our  rights  in  Oregon,  are  submitted  to 
C'ono-ress  with  great  deference.  Should  they,  in  their  wis- 
dom? devise  any  other  mode  better  calculated  to  accomplish 
the  same  object,  it  shall  meet  with  my  hearty  concurrence. 

At  the  end  of  the  year's  notice,  should  Congress  think  it 
proper  to  make  provision  for  giving  that  notice,  we  shall  Ikuc 
I-caclied  a  period  when  the  national  rights  in  Oregon  nms 
cither  be  abandoned  or  firmly  maintained.     Ihat  they  canno 
be  abandoned  without  a  sacrifice  of  both  national  honor  and 
est,  is  too  clear  to  admit  of  doubt.  ,      ,■  , 

Oregon  is  apart  of  the  North  American  continent,  to  which 
it  is  co°ifidently  affirmed,  the  title  of  the  United  States  is  (ho 
best  now  in  existence.     For  the  grounds  on  which  that  title 
rests  1  refer  you  to  the  correspondence  of  the  late  and  pres- 
ent Secretary  of  State  with  the  British  plenipotentiary  dur.n.; 
the   negotiation.     The   British   proposition   of   comp.om.se, 
.vhich  would  make  the  Columbia  the  line  south  of  forty-nuie 
dec^rees,  with  a  trifling  addition  of  detached  territory  to  tho 
United  States,  north  of  that  river,  and  would  leave  on  the 
British  side  two-thirds  of  the  whole  Oregon  territory,  includ- 
ing the  free  navigation  of  the  Columbia  and  all  the  valuable 
harbors  on  the  Pacific,  can  never,  for  a  moment,  be  enter- 
fiined  bv  the  United  States,  without  an  abandonment  of  their 
i'ust  and  clear  territorial  rights,  their  own  self-respect,  and 
the  national  honor.     For  the  information  of  CcJngress  I  com- 
municate herewith  the  correspondence  which  took  place  be- 
tween the  two  governments  during  the  late  negotiation. 

The  rapid  extension  of  our  settlements  over  our  ten-itones 
heretofore  unoccupied;  the  addition  of  new  States  to  our 


■^P" 


1845.J 


FIRST   ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


[1845 

,ain,  shall  have 
!  of  Congress  , 
f  consideration 
Ic,  consistently 

as  to  the  best 
e  submitted  to 
^',  in  their  wis- 
to  accomplish 
concurrence, 
mgrcss  think  it 
3,  wc  shall  have 
\  Oregon  must 
hat  they  cannot 
ional  honor  and 

itinent.  to  which 
,ed  States  is  the 
which  that  title 
iC  late  and  pres- 
lotentiary  durin,'; 
of  compromise, 
ith  of  forty-nine 

territory  to  tlie 
Id  leave  on  the 
territory,  iiiclud- 

all  the  valuable 
oment,  be  cnter- 
donment  of  their 
self-respect,  and 
Omigress,  I  cora- 
;h  took  place  be- 
negotiation. 
rer  our  tcri-itorics 
w  States  to  our 


183 


confedcrncy ;  the  expansion  pf  free  principles,  and  our  rising 
gieatness  as  a  nation,  are  attracting  the  attention  of  tlie  pow- 
eis  of  J^urope ;  and  lately  the  doctrine  lias  been  broached  in 
some  of  them,  of  a  "  balance  of  power"  on  this  continent,  to 
clieck  our  advancement.  The  United  States,  sincerely  de- 
sirous of  preserving  relations  of  good  understanding  with  ail 
nations,  cannot  in  silence  permit  any  European  interference 
on  the  North  American  continent ;  and  should  any  such  in- 
terference be  attempted,  will  be  ready  to  resist  it  at  any  and 
all  hazards. 

It  is  well  known  to  the  American  people  and  to  all  nations, 
that  this  government  has  never  interfered  witli  the  relations 
subsisting  between  other  governments.     We  have  never  made 
ourselves  parties  to  their  wars  or  tlieir  alliances ;  we  have  not 
sought  their  territories  by  conquest ;  we  liave  not  mingled 
with  parties  in  their  domestic  strugy;les ;  and   believing  our 
own  form  of  government  to  be  tlie  best,  we  have  never  at- 
tempted  to  propagate   it  by  intrigues,  by  diplomacy,  or  by 
force.     We  may  claim  on  this  continent  a  like  exemption  fioin 
European  interference.       The  na!io;i«<  (,("  Anie:ic:i  are  etiuailr 
sovereign  and  independet;!;  whli  tli.iM'  nf  Knrope.     Tliev  pos- 
sess the  same  rights,  indroendeiu  of  all  foreign  interposition, 
to  make  war,'  to  conchide  peace,  and   to  regulate  tlieir  inter- 
nal afi'airs.      Tiie  people  of  the  United  States  cannot,  there- 
lore,  view  with  indifference  attempts  of  European  powers  to 
interfere  with  the   independent  action  of  llie  nations  on  this 
continent.     The  American  .system  of  government  is  entirely 
dillerent  from  that  of  Ktn'ope.     .leah.nsy  among  the  dift'tMent 
sovereigns  of  Europe,  lest  anyone  of  tliem  miglit  become  to" 
powerful  for  the  rest,  has  caused  them  anxiously  to  desire  tln^ 
eslablishment  of  wlin:    they  term   the  "  balance  of  power." 
It  cannot  be.permitlod  to  have  any  appl:r;ition  on  the  North 
American  continent,  and  csijecialiy  to  the  United  States.    We 
must  ever  maintain  the  principle,  that  the  people  of  this  con- 
tinent alone  have  the  right  to  decide  tlieir  own  ddstiny.  Should 


J 


184 


JAMES   KNOX    POLK. 


[1845. 


any  portion  of  them,  constituting  an  independent  State,  pro- 
pose to  unite  tiicmselves  with  our  confederiicy,  tliis  will  be  a 
question  for  them  and  us  to  determine,  witliout  any  foreign 
interposition.  We  can  never  consent  that  European  Powers 
sliiill  interfere  to  prevent  such  a  union,  because  it  might  dis- 
turb the  "  balance  of  power"  which  they  may  desire  to  main- 
tain upon  this  continent.  Near  a  quarter  of  a  century  ago, 
the  principle  was  distinctly  announced  to  the  world  in  the 
annual  message  of  one  of  my  predcscessors,  that  "  the  Amer- 
iciiii  continents,  by  the  frr?  and  indi'pendent  condition  which 
they  have  assumed  and  maintain,  are  henceforth  not  to  be 
considered  as  subjects  for  future  colonization  by  any  European 
Power."  This  principle  will  apply  with  greatly  increased 
force,  should  any  Europeun  power  attempt  to  establish  any 
new  colony  in  North  Auvrica.  In  the  existing  circumstances 
of  the  world,  the  present  is  deemed  a  proper  occasion  to  re- 
iterate and  reiiffirm  tlie  principle  avowed  by  Mr.  Monroe,  and 
to  state  my  cordial  concurrence  in  i;.s  wisdom  and  sound  poli- 
cy. '' he  reiissertion  of  this  princii  le,  especially  in  reference 
to  North  America,  is  at  tliis  day  but  the  promulgation  of  a 
policy  which  no  European  power  sl.ould  cherish  the  disposi- 
tion to  resist.  Existing  rights  of  eve.  y  European  nation  should 
be  respected  ;  but  it  is  due  alike  to  our  safety  and  our  inter- 
ests, that  the  efficient  protection  of  our  laws  should  be  ex- 
tended over  our  whole  territorial  limits,  and  that  it  should  be 
distinctly  announced  to  the  world  as  our  settled  policy,  that 
no  future  European  c(jlony  or  dominion  shall,  with  our  con- 
sent, be  ])lantod  or  estiil;lished  on  any  part  of  the  North 
American  continent. 

A  question  has  recently  arisen  under  the  tenth  article  of 
the  subsisting  treaty  between  the  United  States  and  .Prussia. 
Uy  this  article,  the  consuls  of  the  two  countries  have  the 
ri<Tht  to  sit  as  judges  and  arbitrators  "  in  such  differences  as 
may  arise  between  the  captains  and  ci  ews  of  vessels  belong- 
ing to  the  nations  whose  interests  are  committed  to  their 


lifS^-' — ^^ —  — 


n 


[1845. 

nt  State,  pro- 
tliis  will  be  a 
it  any  foreign 
opcan  Powers 
3  it  might  dis- 
lesire  to  main- 
,  century  ago, 
world  in  the 
t  "  the  Amer- 
)ndition  which 
rth  not  to  be 
any  European 
latly  increased 
establish  any 
circumstances 
occasion  to  re- 
1-.  Monroe,  and 
lid  sound  poli- 
ly  in  reference 
lulgation  of  a 
;h  the  disposi- 
1  nation  should 
and  our  inter- 
should  be  ex- 
^t  it  should  be 
ed  policy,  that 
with  our  con- 
of  the  North 

3nth  article  of 
;s  and  .Prussia, 
tries  have  the 
differences  as 
essels  belong- 
iiitted  to  their 


1845.J 


FIRST    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


185 


charge,  without  the  interference  of  llio  local  authorities,  un- 
less the  conduct  of  the  crews  or  of  the  captains  should  dis- 
(urb  the  order  or  tranquillity  of  the  country  ;  or  the  said  con- 
suls should  requiie  their  assistance  to  cause  their  decisions  to 
be  carried  into  effect  or  supported." 

TIk!  Prussian  consul  at  -New  Bedford,  in  June,  1844,  ap- 
plied  to  Mr.  Justice  Story  to  carry  into  elfect  a  decision  made 
hy  him  between  the  captain  and  th(f  crew  of  the  Prussian 
.•^iiip  l!(}russia  ;  but  the  request  was  refused  on  the  ground 
that,  without  previous  legislation  by  Congress,  tlie  judiciary 
did  not  possess  the  power  to  give  effect  to  this  article  of  the 
tieaty.     The  Prussian  governnuMit,  through  their  minister 
here,  have  complained  of  this  .violation  of  the. treaty,  and 
have  lusked  the  government  of  the  United  States  to  adopt  the 
necessary  measures  to    prevent  similar  violations  hereafter. 
(Jood  faith  to  Prussi«i,  as  well  as  to  otiier  nations  with  whom 
Me  have  similar  treiity  stipulations,  requires  that  these  should 
!)e  fiiitiifuliy  observed.     I  have  deemed  it  proper,  therefore, 
to  lay  the  subject  before  Congress,  and  to  recommend  such 
legislation  as  may  be  necessary  to  give  effect  to  these  treaty 
oblijjations. 

By  virtue  of  an  arrangement  made  between  the  Spanish 
government  and   that  of  the  United  States,  in  December, 
1831,  American  vessels,  since  the  29th  of  April,  1832,  have 
been  admitted  to  entry  in  the  ports  of  Spain,  including  those 
of  the  Balearic  and  Canary  islands,  on  payment  of  the  same 
tonnage  duty  of  five  cents  per  ton,  as  though  they  had  been 
Spanish  vessels ;  and  this,  whether  our  vessels  arrive  in  Spain 
directly    from  the   United  States,  or   indirectly  from    any 
other  country.     When  Congress,  by  the  act  of  the  13th  of 
July,  1832,  gave  effect  to  this  arra  igement  between  the  two 
governments,  they  confined  the  reduction  of  tonnage  duty 
merely  to  Spanish  vessels  _"  coming  from  a  port  in  Spain," 
leaving  the  former  discriminating  duty  to  remain  against  such 
vessels  coming  from  a  port  in  any  other  country.     It  is  man- 


JAMES    KNUX    POLK. 


[1846. 


Ifestly  unjust  that,  whilst  American  vessels,  arriving  in  tho 
ports  of  Spain  from  other  (  ountries,  pay  no  more  duty  tluvn 
Spanish  vessels,  Spanish  vessels  arriving  in  the  ports  of  tlio 
United  States  from  other  countries  shguld  be  subjected  to 
heavy  discriminating  tonnage  duties.  This  is  neither  equality 
nor  reciprocity,  and  is  in  violation  of  the  arrangement  con- 
cluded in  December,  1831,  between  the  two  countries.  Tho 
Spanish  government  have  made  repeated  and  earnest  remon- 
strances against  this  inequality,  and  the  favorable  attention 
of  Congress  has  been  several  times  mvoked  to  the  subject  by 
my  prcdeccssoi-s.  I  recommend,  as  an  act  of  justice  to  Spain, 
that  this  inequality  be  removed  by  Congress,  and  that  tho 
discriminating  duties  which  have  been  levied  under  the  act 
of  the  13th  of  July,  1832,  on  Spanish  vessels  coming  to  tlw 
United  States  from  .any  other  foreign  country,  be  refunded. 
This  recommendation  does  not  embrace  Spanish  vessels  ar- 
riving in  the  United  States  from  Cuba  and  Porto  Rico,  which 
will  still  remain  subject  to  thu  provisions  of  the  act  of  June 
30th,  1834,  concerning  tonnage  duty  on  such  vessels. 

By  the  act  of  the  14th  of  July,  183'2,  coffee  was  exempt- 
ed from  duty  altogether.  This  exemption  was  universal, 
■without  reference  to  the  country  where  it  was  produced,  or 
the  national  character  of  the  vessel  in  which  it  was  imported. 
By  the  tariff  act  of  the  30th  August,  1842,  this  exemption 
from  duty  waa  restricted  to  coffee  imported  in  American 
vessels  from  the  place  of  its  production  ;  whilst  coffee  im- 
ported tmder  all  other  circiimstances  was  s  bjected  to  a  duty 
of  20  per  cent,  ad  valorem.  Under  this  act,  and  our  exist- 
ing treaty  with  the  King  of  the  Netherlands,  Java  coffee  im- 
ported from  the  Eiu-opean  ports  of  that  kingdom  into  the 
United  States,  whether  in  Dutch  or  American  vessels,  now 
pays  this  rate  of  duty.  The  government  of  the  Netherlands 
compltuns  that  such  a  discrimmating  duty  should  have  been 
imposed  on  coffee,  the  production  of  one  of  its  colonies,  and 
which  is  chiefly  brought  from  Java  to  the  ports  of  that  king- 


[1845. 


1845.J 


KIIIST    ANNlTAt-    MKSSAGE. 


187 


arriving  in  tlio 
aore  duty  than 
lie  ports  of  tho 
c  subjected  to 
leither  equality 
mgement  con- 
ountries.  Tho 
earnest  remon- 
»rable  attention 
the  subject  by 
usticeto  Spain, 
,  and  that  tho 
under  the  act 
coming  to  tlio 
,  be  refunded, 
nish  vessels  ar- 
rto  Rico,  which 
le  act  of  June 
vessels. 

e  was  exempt- 
was  universii?, 
18  produced,  or 
,  was  imported, 
this  exemption 
i  in  American 
hilst  coffee  im- 
ected  to  a  duty 
and  our  exist- 
Java  coffee  im- 
igdom  into  the 
an  vessels,  now 
he  Netherlands 
lould  have  been 
ts  colonies,  and 
•ts  of  that  king- 


dom, and  exported  from  (hence  to  forelcrn  countries.  Our 
trade  with  the  Netherlands  is  higiily  honelicial  to  both  coun- 
tries, and  our  relations  with  them  have  ev(;r  been  of  tho  most 
friendly  character.  I'lKler  nil  the  cireiini-tiiiuMs  of  the  ca.sc, 
I  recommend  that  this  discnniinalion  slioukl  he  abolished,  uiid 
that  the  cofl'ee  of  .Java  imported  from  the  Netherlands  bo 
placed  upon  the  same  footinif  with  that  imported  directly 
from  iJrazil  and  other  countries  whert!  it  is  produced. 

Under  the  eighth  section  of  the  tarilf  act  of  the  thirtieth  of 
August,  1842,  a  duty  of  fifteen  cents  per  gallon  was  imposed 
Dn  Port  wine  in  ca.xks ;  while,  cm  the  red   wines  of  several 
other  countries,  when  imported  in  casks,  a  duty  of  only  six 
cents  per  gallon  was  imj)osed.     This  discrimination,  so  far  as 
regarded  the  Port  wine  of  Portugal,  wa.s  deemed  a  violation 
of  our  treaty  witii  that  power,  which  provides,  tliat  "  No 
higher  or  other  duties  .shall  be  imposed  on  the  importation 
into  the  United  States  of  America  of  any  article  the  growth, 
produce,  or  manufacture  of  this  kingdom  and  possessions  of 
Portugal,  than  such  as  are  or  shall  be  payable  on  the  like  ar- 
ticle being  the  growth,  produce,  or  manufacture  of  any  other 
foreign  country."     Accordingly,  to  give  effect  to  the  treaty, 
a.s  well  as  to  the  intention  of  Congress,  expressed  in  a  proviso 
to  the  tariff  act  itself,  that  nothing  therein  contained  should 
be  so  construed  as  to  interfere  with  subsisting  treaties  with 
foreign  nations ;  a  treasury  circular  was  issued  on  the  six- 
teenth of  July,  1844,  which,  among  other  things,  declared 
the  duty  on  the  Port  wine  of  Portugal,  in  casks,  under  the 
existing  laws  and  treaty,  to  be  six  cents  per  gallon,  and  di- 
rected that  the  excess  of  duties  which  had  been  collected  on 
such  wine,  should  be  refunded.     By  virtue  of  another  clause, 
in  the  same  section  of  the  act,  it  is  provided  that  all  imitations 
of  Port,  or  any  oth^r  wines,  "  shall  be  subject  to  the  duty 
provided  for  the  genuine  article."    Imitations  of  Port  wine, 
the  production  of  France,  are  imported  to  some  extent  into 
the  United  States ;  and  the  government  of  that  country  now 


'':Z^Sm:.Si~~— 


--.W««^i&l«r<i^E'5^*^n 


;.r>.."-:v^..,.iJife'igvJV 


188 


■■■IT" 


JAMES   KNOX   FOLK. 


[1846. 


claims  tluvt,  uiuloi  a  correct  construction  of  the  act,  these  im- 
itations ought  not  to  pay  a  higher  duty  thiin  that  imposed 
upon  the  original  Poil  tvinc  of  Portugal,  it  appcors  to  mo 
to  be  unequal  and  unjust,  that  French  imitations  of  Port  wine 
shoeki  be  subjected  to  a  duty  of  tlfteon  cents,  while  the  moru 
valu(il)I.(  article  from  Portugal  should  jjay  a  duty  of  six  cents 
„,,!y  per  gallon.  I  therefore  recommend  to  Con-;"  ss  such 
lf-;,'islation  as  may  be  necessary  to  correct  the  inecpuvlity. 

"I'he  late  President,  in  his  annual  message,  of  Deeemh<  r 
hust,  recommended  lui  appropriation  to  satisfy  the  claims  of 
the  Texan  „nv.-rnment  ngiiinst  the  United  States,  which  had 
been  previously  adjusted,  so  far  as  the  powers  of  the  lixec- 
utive  extend.  These  claims  arose  out  of  the  act  of  disarming 
u  body  of  T*;xan  troops  under  the  command  of  Major  Snively, 
by  an  officer  in  the  service  of  the  United  States,  acting  under 
the  orders  of  our  gf)vernment ;  and  the  forcible  entry  into  the 
eustom-houso  tit  Bryarly's  landing,  on  Red  River,  by  certain 
citizens  of  the  United  States,  and  taking  away  therefrom  the 
goods  seized  by  the  collector  of  the  customs  as  forfeited  under 
the  laws  of  Texas.  ThU  was  a  liquidated  debt,  ascertain-d 
to  be  due  to  Texas  when  an  independent  State.  Her  accept- 
ance of  the  terms  of  annexation  proposed  by  the  United  States 
does  not  discharge  or  invalidate  the  claim.  I  recommend 
that  provision  be  made  for  its  payment. 

The  commissioner  appointed  to  China  during  the  special 
session  of  the  Senate  in  March  last,  shortly  afterwards  set  out 
on  his  Tiission  in  the  United  States  ship  Columbus.  On  ar- 
riving »i  Rio  de  Janeiro  on  his  passage,  the  state  of  his  health 
had  be ■^ome  so  critical,  that,  by  the  advice  of  his  medical  at- 
tendants, he  returned  to  the  United  States  early  in  the  month 
of  October  last.  Commodore  Biddle,  commanding  the  East 
India  squadron,  proceeded  on  his  voyage  in  the  Columbus, 
and  was  charged  by  the  commissioner  with  the  duty  of  ex- 
changing with  the  proper  authorities  the  ratifications  of  the 
treaty  lately  concluded  with  the  Emperor  of  China.    Since 


■■t'»i-!iiiwa,y«w?!Mg-T 


i,,|»H5«(«' 


[1846. 

10  net,  these  ira- 
iiii  thiit  imposed 
t  nppenrs  ti)  mo 
ma  of  Port  wiiio 
,  while  the  more 
Juty  of  six  cents 
)  Conj^r'  .srt  hucli 
(  inequality. 
re  of  Decemb' r 
ify  the  claims  of 
tates,  which  hud 
era  of  the  lixec- 
act  of  disarming 
3f  Major  Snively, 
te.s,  acting  under 
ble  entry  into  the 
River,  by  certain 
vy  therefrom  the 
18  forfeited  under 
debt,  ascertaiu'.'d 
ite.  Her  accept- 
he  United  States 
..    I  recommend 

iring  the  special 
fterwards  set  out 
lumbus.  On  ar- 
tate  of  his  health 
if  his  medical  at- 
irly  in  the  month 
Handing  the  East 
Q  the  Columbus, 
the  duty  of  ex- 
ktifications  of  the 
of  China.    Since 


IMAGE  EVALUATION 
TEST  TARGET  (MT-S) 


A 


1.0 


I.I 


1.25 


If  1^  1^ 

■^  !■■  mil  2  2 


1.4 


1.8 


1.6 


Photographic 

Sciences 

Corporation 


23  WEST  MAIN  STREET 

WEBSTER,  N.Y.  14580 

(716)  872-4503 


,'\ 


^^ 


<b 


V 


^^ 


6^ 


^  .w. 


?    '^ 


.6> 


CIHM/ICMH 

Microfiche 

Series. 


CIHM/ICMH 
Collection  de 
microfiches. 


Canadian  Institute  for  Historical  MIcroreproductions  /  Instltut  canadlen  de  microreproductlons  historlques 


^^M^^mMMi:^¥mmtsPi^.-^'i 


^.■1.';*^?*?^ 


■  ,>(«fiiMg  u(i»t"i  1 1 •  V'vn 


"•m  im''*H*i^mmiH"^'v^ 


l8^o.J 


FIRST    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


189 


the  return  of  the  commissioner  to  the  United  States,  his  health 
lias  been  much  improved,  and  he  entertains  the  confident  be- 
lief that  he  will  soon  be  able  to  proceed  on  his  mission. 

Unfortunately,  differences  continue  to  exist  among  some  of 
the  nations  of  South  America,  which,  following  our  example, 
have  established  tlieir  independence,  while  in  otiiers  internal 
dissensions  prevail.  It  is  natural  that  our  sympathies  should 
be  warmly  enlisted  for  their  welfare ;  that  we  should  desire 
that  all  controversies  between  them  should  be  amicably  ad- 
justed, and  their  governments  administered  in  a  manner  to 
protect  the  rights,  and  promote  the  prosperity  of  their  people. 
It  is  contrary,  however,  to  our  settled  policy,  to  interfere  in 
their  controversies,  whether  external  or  internal. 

I  have  thus  adverted  to  all  the  subjects  connected  with  our 
foreign  relations,  to  which  I  deem  it  necessary  to'call  your 
attention.  Our  policy  is  not  only  peace  witli  all,  but  good 
will  towards  all  the  Powers  of  the  earth.  While  we  are  just 
to  all,  we  require  that  all  shall  be  just  to  us.  Excepting  the 
differences  with  Mexico  and  Great  Britain,  our  relations  witli  ' 
nil  civilized  nations  are  of  the  most  satisfactory  character.  It 
is  hoped  that  in  this  enlightened  age,  these  differences  may 
be  amicably  adjusted. 

The  Secretary  of  the  Treasury,  in  his  annual  report  to  Con- 
gress, will  communicate  a  full  statement  of  the  condition  of 
our  finances.  The  imports  for  the  fiscal  year  ending  on  the 
30th  of  June  last,  were  of  the  value  of  one  hundred  and  sev- 
enteen millions  two  hundred  and  fifty-four  thousand  five  hun- 
dred and  sixty-four  dollars,  of  which  the  amount  exported 
was  fifteen  millions  three  hundred  and  forty-six  tliousaiul 
eight  hundred  and  thirty  dollars— leaving  a  balance  of  one 
hundred  and  one  millions  nine  hundred  and  seven  thousand 
seven  hundred  and  tliirty-four  dollars  for  domestic  consump- 
tion. The  exports  for  the  same  year  were  of  the  value  of 
one  hundred  and  fourteen  millions  six  hundred  and  forty-six 
thousand  six  hundred  and  six  dolhu-s ;  of  which,  the  amount 


i**l',i.'.Wrilfti^L^-44*lS*>^ 


r 


190 


JAMES    KNOX    I'OLK. 


\lMi 


of  domestic  articles  was  ninety-nine  millions  two  hundred  ani 
ninety-nine  thousand  seven  hundred  and  scventy-s.x  dollars. 
The  receipts  into  the  treasury  during  the  same  year  were 
twontv-ninc  millions  seven  hundred  and  sixty-nme  thousaml 
one  hundred  and  thirty-three  dollars  and  fifty-s,x  cents  ;  ot 
which,  there  were  derived  from  customs,  twenty- .even  nnlhons 
five  hundred  and  twenty-eiglit  thousand  one  hundred  and 
twelve  dollars  and  seventy  ce,>ts  ;  fron.  sales  of  puhhc  lands, 
two  millions  seventv-sevcn  thousand  and  twenty-two  dolhn. 
and    thirty    cents  ;-a:,d    from    incidental    and    m.sce  lanoous 
sources,  one  hundred  and  sixly-threo  thousand  nu.e  hund,c<l 
and  nlnetv-ei,l,t  dollars  a«d  fifty-six  cents       ihe  expenditures 
for  tl>e  same  period  were  twenty-nine  nnlltons  nme  hundred 
and   sixtv-eii^ht  thousand  two  hundred  and  s,x  dolus  an. 
ninelv-el'c'htVents;  of  which  ciglU  millions  five  hundred  and 
:      tv-eight  thousand  one  hundred  and  fifty-seven  dollars  a-ul 
ixty'two%ents  were  applied  to  the  P^y'-nt  of  the  pubic 
deb  .     The  balance  in  the  treasury  on  the  first  of  July   ast, 
•  was  seven  millions  six  hundred  and  flfty-e.ght  thousand  three 
hundred  and  six  dollars  and  twenty-two  cents. 

The  amount  of  public  debtremammg  upaiu  on  the  first  of 
October  last,  was  seventeen  millions  .eventy-five   thousand 
fom- hundred  and  forty-five  dollars  and  ^^7;^^ ^^^^^^X 
ther  payments  of  the  public  debt  would  have  been  made  m 
anticipalion  of  the  period  of  its  reimbursement  under  the  au- 
Lrit^y  conferred  upon  the  Secretary  f  ^1-  Treas,.y  by  1 1. 
acts  of  Julv  twenty-first,  1841,  and  of  Apr.    fifteenth,  1842, 
and  March^hird,  1^43,  had  not  the  unsettled  state  of  our  rc- 
a^ions  with  Mexico  menaced  hostile  colhsion  w,th  that  pow  r. 
n  view  of  such  a  contingency,  it  was  deemed  pmdent  to  re- 
tain in  the  treasury  an  amount  unusually  large  for  ordmary 

^"Tiew  years  ago,  our  whole  national  debt  growing  out  of 
the^  Revolution  a.'d  the  war  of  1812  with  Great  Bntmn,  was 
Ixtbguished,  and  we  presented  to  the  world  the  rare   and 


L 


1 


■■.Vi.fc->^ 


[1845. 

Lwo  hundrod  iin't 
vcnty-six  dollars, 
same  year  vccvo. 
ty-nino  thousand 
ifty-six  cents ;  of 
iUy->''vcn  millions 
me  hundred  and 
s  of  public  lands, 
iventy-two  dollars    . 
nd    miscellaneous 
and  nine  hundred 
The  expenditures 
ons  nine  hundred 
d  six  dollars  and 
!  five  hundred  and 
•-seven  dollars  and 
nent  of  the  public 
3  first  of  .luly  last, 
rht  thousand  three 
:nts. 

paiu  on  the  first  of 
■>nty-five  thousand 
V-two  cents.  Fur  • 
have  been  made  in 
mcnt  under  the  au- 
le  Treasury  by  the 
m\  fifteenth,  1842, 
■led  state  of  our  re- 
an  with  that  power, 
med  pnident  to  re- 
■  largo  for  ordinary 

debt  growing  out  of 
i  Great  Britain,  was 
vorld  the  rare   and 


1845.J 


FIRST    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


191 


noble  spectacle  of  a  great  mid  growing  people  who  had  fully 
discharged  every  obligation.  Since  that  time,  the  existing 
debt  has  been  contracted;  and  small  as  it  is,  in  comparison 
with  tiie  similar  burdens  of  most  other  nations,  it  should  bo 
extinguished  at  the  eariiest  practicable  period.  Siuuild  the 
state  of  the  country  permit,  and,  especially,  if  our  foreign 
relations  interpose  no  obstacle,  it  iscontemplated  to  a[ii]ly  all 
Ihe  moneys  in  the  treasury  as  they  accrue,  beyond  wiiat  is 
required  for  tlie  appropiiulioiisby  Congress,  to  its  liquidation. 
1  cherish  the  hope  uf  soon  being  able  to  congraluhte  the 
country  on  its  reiui.i'iin  ;•  one.'  more  the  lofty  po.>i(ion  which 
it  so  recently  occupied.  Our  country,  which  exhiijits  to  the 
world  the  benefits  of  self-government,  in  developing  all  the 
sources  of  national  prosperity,  owes  to  mankind  the  perma- 
nent example  of  a  nation  free  from  the  blighting  infiuence  of 
a  public  debt. 

The  attention  of  Congress  is  invited  to  the  importance  of 
making  suitable  modifications  and  reductions  of  the  rates  of. 
duty  imposed  by  our  present  tariff  laws.  Tiie  object  of  im- 
posing duties  on  imports  should  be  to  raise  revenue  to  piyr 
the  necessary  expenses  of  government.  Congress  may,  un- 
doubtedly, in  the  exercise  of  a  sound  discretion,  discriminate 
in  arranging  the  rates  of  duty  on  different  articles  ;  but  the 
discriminations  should  be  within  the  revenue  standard,  and  be 
made  with  a  view  to  raise  money  for  the  support  of  govern- 
ment. •  _  ' 

It  becomes  important  to  understand  distinctly  what  is  meant 
by  a  revenue  standard,  the  maximum  of  which  should  not  bo 
exceeded  in  the  rates  of  duty  imposed.  It  is  conceded,  and 
experience  proves,  that  duties  may  be  laid  so  high  as  to  di- 
minish, or  prohibit  altogether,  the  importation  of  any  given 
article,  and  thereby  lessen  or  destroy  the  revenue  whici),  at 
lower  rates,  would  be  derived  from  its  importation.  Such 
duties  exceed  the  revenue  rates,  and  are  not  imposed  to  raise 
money  for  the  support  of  government.    If  Congress  levy  a 


192 


JAMES  KNOX    POLK. 


[1845. 


duty,  for  revenue,  of  one  per  cent,  on  a  g.ven  article,  ,t  y^ 
produce  a  given  amount  of  money  to  the  treasury,  nnd.   1 
ncidentallv  and  necessarily  afford  protect.on,  or   ad^mtage 
::  the  amount  of  one  per  cent  to  the  home  r^^  ^ 
a  shnihu-  or  like  article,  over  the  importer.     1    the  dut)  1 . 
rvisod  to  ten  per  cent.,  it  will  produce  a  greater  amoun   of 
^ey     nd  afford  greater  protection,     tf  it  be  st.l    raised   o 
twenty,  twenty-live:  or  thirty  per  cent.,  and  ,f,  as  i    is  raised, 
the  revenue  derived  from  it  is  found  to  be  increased  the  pro- 
tection or  advantage   will   also   be  increased ;  but  if  it  be 
S  to  thirty-on^per  cent.,  and  it  is  found  that  the  reve- 
nu    pi^duced'at  that  rate  is  less  than  thirty  per  cent,   it 
ceases  to  be  a  revenue  duty.     The  precise  point  in  the  as- 
cending scale  of  duties  at  which  it  is  ascertained  from  expe.i- 
„ce  that  the  revenue  is  greatest,  is  the  maximum  rate  of 
duty  which  can  be  laid  for  the  horn  fide  purpose  of  collect  ng 
,noney  for  the  support  of  government.     To  raise  the  duties 
Lic^her  than  that  point,  and  thereby  diminish  the  amoun   col- 
lected, is  to  levy  them  for  protection  merelj-,  and  not  for 
revenvle      As  long,  then,  as  Congress  may  gradually  increase 
the  rate  of  duty  on  a  given  article,  and  the  revenue  is  in- 
creased by  such  increase  of  duty,  they  are  within  the  revenue 
standard.     When  they  go  beyond  that  point,  and  as  they 
■  increase  the  duties  the  revenue  is  dimmished  or  destroyed 
the  act  ceases  to  have  for  its  object  the  raising  of  money  to 
support  government,  but  is  for  protection  merely 

U  does  not  follow  that  Congress  should  levy  the  highest 
duty  on  all  articles  of  import  which  they  will  bear  within  the 
revenue  standard;  for  such  mtes  would  pobably  produce  a 
much  larrrer  amount  than  the  economical  admmistration  of 
rgover^nment  would  require.  Nor  does  it  follow  that  the 
duties  on  all  articles  should  be  at  the  same  or  a  honzont.xl 
rate  Some  articles  will  bear  a  much  higher  revenue  duty  than 
others.  Below  the  maximum  of  the  revenue  standard  Con- 
gress may  and  ought  to  discriminate  in  the  rates  miposed.  tak- 


[1845. 

mn  article,  it  will 
reasury,  nnd  will 
)n,  or  advantage, 
;  manufacturer  of 
If  the  duty  be 
n-catcr  amount  of 
t  be  still  raised  to 

if,  as  it  is  raised, 
icreased,  the  pro- 
sod;  but  if  it  be 
nd  th;it  the  revc- 
Lhirty  per  cent.,  it 
!  point  in  the  as- 
ained  from  experi- 

niaximum  rate  of 
irpose  of  collecting 
lo  raise  the  duties 
sh  the  amount  col- 
crely,  and  not  fur 
'  gradually  increase 
the  revenue  is  in- 

within  the  revenue 
point,  and,  as  they 
ished  or  destroyed, 
raising  of  money  to 

merely. 

Id  levy  the  highest 
■will  bear  within  the 
pjobably  produce  a 
al  administration  of 
es  it  follow  that  the 
same  or  a  horizontal 
er  revenue  duty  than 
'enue  standard  Con- 
e  rates  imposed,  tak- 


1845.J 


FIRST   ANNUAL   MESSAGE. 


193 


miiui  I  1  ■•■iir'~ii""*' 


1 


ing  care  so  to  adjust  them  on  diflfcrent  articles  as  to  produce 
in  the  aggregate,  the  amount  wliich,  when  added  to  the  pro- 
ceeds of  the  sales  of  public  lands,  may  be  needed  to  pay  the 
economical  expenses  of  government. 

In  levying  a  tariff  of  duties.  Congress  exercises  the  taxing 
power,  and  for  purposes  of  revenue  may  select  the  objects  of 
taxation.  They  may  exempt  certain  articles  altogetlior,  and 
permit  tlieir  importation  free  of  duty.  On  others  they  m  ,y 
impose  low  duties.  In  these  classes  may  be  embraced  such 
articles  of  necessity  as  are  in  general  use,  and  especially  such 
as  are  consumed  by  the  laborer  and  the  poor  as  well  as  by 
the  wealthy  citizen.  Care  should  be  taken  that  all  the  great 
interests  of  the  country,  including  manufactures,  agriculture, 
commerce,  navigation  and  the  meclianic  arts,  should,  as  far 
as  may  be  practicable,  derive  equal  advantages  from  the  inci- 
dental protection  which  a  just  system  of  revenue  duties  may 
afford.  Taxation,  direct  or  indirect,  is  a  burden,  and  it  should 
be  so  imposed  as  to  operate  as  equally  as  may  be,  on  all 
classes,  in  the  proportion  of  their  ability  to  bear  it.  To  make 
the  taxing  power  an  actual  benefit  to  one  class,  necessarily 
increases. the  burden  of  the  othei-s  beyond  their  proportion, 
and  would  be  manifestly  unjust. 

The  terms  "  protection  to  domestic  industry,"  are  of  pop- 
ular import ;  but  they  should  apply  under  a  just  system  to 
all  the  various  branches  of  industry  in  our  country.  The 
farmer  or  planter  who  toils  yeariy  in  his  fields,  is  engaged  in 
"  domestic  industry,"  and  is  as  much  entitled  to  have  lii."  labor 
"  protected,"  as  the  mnnufacturer,  the  man  of  commerce,  tiio 
navigator,  or  the  mechanic,  who  are  engaged  also  in  "  domes- 
tic industry  "  in  theii  different  pursuits.  The  joint  labors  of 
all  these  classes  constitute  the  aggregate  of  the  "domestic 
industry  "  of  the  nation,  and  they  are  equally  entitled  to  the 
nation's  "  protection."  No  one  of  them  can  justly  claim  to 
be  the  exclusive  recipients  of  "  protection,"  which  can  only 
be  afforded  by  increasing  burdens  on  the  "  domestic  indua- 
try  "  of  the  others. 


1 


:-g*tesS3»ia®l!l»l^aKT^ 


^^^a^igs'rt^saw^Tr.  -: 


194 


JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


[1845. 


If  thdsc  views  be  correct,  it  re.nains  to  .nriu.re  how  far     e 
fu-iir  .vet  of  1812  is  consistent  with  then.     'Hiut  many  of  the 
lions  of  tlua  act  are  in  violation  of  the  cardinal  prniopK. 
id  down,  all  must  concede.     The  rates  of  duty.nnpo^d 
;  t  on  some  articles  arc  prohibitory,  a.ul  on  "thers  sc,  1  ^ 
.,     .really  to  diminish  importations,  and  to  produce  a  less 
.Juntof  revenue  than  would  bo  derived  irom  low.- ra^s. 
They  operate  as  "  protection  n>erely.-  to  one  branch  of     do- 
mestic indiLstry,"  by  taxing  other  branches.     ^^ 

By  the  introduction  of  minimums,  or  assumed  and  fa   o 
vdues  and  by  the  inn-osition  of  specilic  duties,  the  n>jusUce 

'■",     •        ,./    .  „„.  .  .•t  of  184"   in  its  practical  operations 
and  inequality  of  thu  act  ui   J  ^4-,  m        i  r 

on  dilferent  classes  and  pursuits,  are  seen  and  felt.     Many 

0    the  oppressive  duties  imposed  by  it  under  the  operation  o 

li  piJnciples,  range  from  one  per  cent,,  to  more  than  two 

others,^md  bear  most  heavily  on  articles  of  common  neces- 
si  y  and  but  lightly  on  articles  of  luxury.  It  is  so  framed 
Z  muchtheW^t  burden  which  U  impc..  is  Wn 
on  labor  and  the  poorer  classes  who  are  least  able  to  btai  it, 

rh^H  protects  lipit^^'.  -^  -^^^^^  ^'>^  ?•  T  ^''"Ift 
it  just  proportioL  of  the  taxation  required  tor  the  sr^.j. 
o  To  -ernment.  While  it  protects  the  capital  of  the  we  Ithy 
mi^  "  r,  and  increased  his  profits,  it  does  not  bench  ^ 
reratives  or  laborers  in  his  employment,  whose  wages  have 
°o  b  en  increased  by  it.  Articles  of  prime  necessity  or  of 
!o  rse  luty  and  low  price,  used  by  the  masses  of  the  peo- 
;;  arb  many  instaiices  subjected  by  it  to  heavy  taxes 
Si'ile  articles  of  finer  quality  and  higher  price  or  ot  luxuiy 
V    ch  can  be  used  onlv  by  the  opulent,  are  lightly  taxed.    It 

n^o  esTeavy  and  unjust  burdens  on  the  farmer,  the  planter 
miposes  neavy  a  j  .^^^^^^  ^^^^^, 

the  commercial  man,  ana  tnose  oi  r  , 

the  capitalist  who  has  made  his  investments  in  --ujact-e. 
AH  the  great  interests  of  the  country  are  not,  as  nearly  aa 
may  be  practicable,  equally  protected  by  it.       _ 


[1845. 

quire  how  far  the 
Thivt  many  of  tho 
ijiirdinal  priiicipK'S 
)S  of  dutyjmpo^tl 
on  others  so  liii^'li 
to  produce  u  less 
from  lower  ratos. 
iR!  branch  of  "  do- 

1, 

issumed  and  false 
lutk'S,  the  injustice 
jructical  operations 
1  and  felt.  Many 
Lcr  the  operation  of 
„  to  more  than  two 

and  partially  so  on 

of  common  neccs- 
•y.  It  is  so  framed 
t  imposes  is  thrown 
least  able  to  bear  it, 
e  rich  from  paying 
ired  for  the  support 
ipital  of  the  wealtliy 

does  not  benefit  tho 
;,  whose  wages  have 
rime  necessity  or  of 
:;  masses  of  the  peo- 
y  it  to  heavy  taxes, 

price,  or  of  luxury, 
vre  lightly  taxed.  It 
c  farmer,  the  planter, 
)ther  pursuits  except 
ents  in  manufactures. 

are  not,  as  nearly  as 
ly  it. 


1845.] 


FIRST   ANNUAL   MESSAGE. 


195 


The  government,  in  theory,  knows  no  distinction  of  per- 
sons or  classes,  and  should  not  bestow  upon  some  favors  and 
privileges  which  all  others  may  not  enjoy.  It  was  the  pur- 
pose of  its  illustrious  founders  to  base  the  institutions  which 
they  reared  upon  the  great  and  unchanging;  principles  of  jus- 
tice and  equity,  conscious  that  if  administered  in  the  spirit  in 
which  they  were  conceived,  they  would  be  felt  only  by  tho 
l)onetits  which  they  diffused,  and  would  secure  for  themselves 
a  defence  in  the  hearts  of  the  people,  more  powerful  than 
standing  armies,  and  all  the  means  and  appliances  invented 
to  sustain  governments  founded  in  justice  and  oppression. 

The  well-known  fact,  that  the  tariff  act  of  1842  was  passed 
by  a  majority  of  one  vote  in  the  Senate,  and  two  in  the  House 
of  Representatives,  and  that  some  of  those  who  felt  them- 
selves constrained,  under  the  peculiar  circumstances  existing 
iit  the  time,  to  vote  in  its  favor,  proclaimed  its  defects,  and  v,x- 
pressed  their  determination  to  aid  in  its  modificaton  on  the 
first  opportunity,  affords  strong  and  conclusive  evidence  that 
it  was  not  intended  to  be  permanent,  and  of  the  expediency 
and  necessity  of  its  thorough  revision. 

In  recommending  to  Congress  a  reduction  of  the  present 
rates  of  duty,  and  a  revision  and  modification  of  the  act  of 
1S4'2,"I  am  far  from  entertaining  opinions  unfriendly  to  the 
manufacturers.  On  the  rontrary,  1  desire  to  see  them  pros- 
perous, as  far  as  they  can  be  so,  without  imposing  uneq'  ■ 
burdens  on  other  interests.  The  advantage  under  any  sy. 
tcm  of  indirect  taxation,  even  within  the  revenue  standard, 
must  be  in  favor  of  the  manufacturing  interest ;  and  of  this 
no  other  interest  will  complain. 

I  recommend  to  Congress  the  abolition  of  the  minimum 
principle,  or  assumed,  arbitrary,  and  false  values,  and  of  spe- 
cific duties,  and  the  substitution  in  their  place  of  ad  valorem 
duties,  as  the  fairest  and  most  equitable  indirect  tax  which 
can  be  imposed.  By  the  ad  valorem  principle,  all  articles  are 
taxed  according  to  their  cost  or  value,  and  those  which  are 


~  'i3iE3t^g;"j^gts^'^v.rt!;'"ag'iM.'.g.j!g!^;.'r^ 


196 


JAMES    KWOX    POLK. 


[1845. 


irreiit  interests  ot  ino  counuj  svstcm,  when 

an  be  aftbrded  by  our  rovonue  law       b  u     a   ys  e    ,  ^^  ^^^^ 

„„,e  firmly  estublished.  ^""^^^  .^'^^I'uid  changes  which 

-:^:..,rotection.ereV;or^^-^.^^^ 

m  the  dehberationsof  '^'''^\'-'^2TcomJom^o  between 

U.at  a  .pint  of  mutual  -no-- J^  J"^  ^,,,,  ,f  u.eir 

conflicting  interests  ma    P-       '  "^^^  eonseciuences. 

labors  may  be  •^••"^^"«^;  '\';"^ '/j^tates  it  i.movlded,  that 
By  the  constitution  of  the  Lnitcdbta^cs^^^  ^^^^^_ 

..no money  shall  be  drawn  f-  ^  « ^  ^^^^^  (    „,,«  treasury 
quenee  of  appropriations  -f;/^]";,,„Jto  be  created, 

;as  undoubtedly  «^«"^-"I'^^^,  ^f , .^  1    pt  from  the  period  of 
in  which  the  public  monc^sl^oidd^^^^^^^^^  ^^^^  1^^^^^.^,,^ 

collection  until  needed  foi  puW.c  u^^e.      ^^^  ^^,^^ 

and  ^^■-^"^•^^'^7^^?'  'Taw  evcept  such  as  were  appointed 
ever  been  ^^-^V^^J^^^X  .^pLble  to  it,  and  under  Us 
by  the  government,  directly  re  p  ^^^^^^^^  ^^^, 

control  The  -^^.^-^'"8  ^f,  ^^^  J,  and  under  like 
eonfidedto  a  Pf ^^  ^r  ^i-c^^^^^^^  '^^  ''' 

Sr  of  itn^Son  could  have  intended  that  a  treas- 


1 


[1845. 

1y  tho  just  pro- 
upeiioi- (luiilily  or 
I  arc  tiixed  at  tlie 
■enue  tlulu's,  witlv 

iiyiiiiist  I'nuuls  ill 
1  HinpU!  inc'uU'utixl 
>lc  them  to  derive 
other  roguliir  buM- 
slrictly  within  tluf 
iring  interests  on  a 
livnent  adviintiige  ; 
le,  extend  to  all  the 
vl  protection  which 
ich  a  system,  when 
ent,  and  not  be  sub- 
5  and  changes  wliich 
id  for  revenue,  but 
interest. 

I  subject,  it  is  hoped 
ompromise  between 
t  the  result  of  their 
it  consequences, 
cs  it  is  provided,  that 
asury  but  in  conse- 
"    A  public  treasury 
tended  to  be  created, 
pt  from  the  period  of 
In  the  collection 
ey,  no  agencies  have 
ich  as  were  appointed 
le  to  it,  and  under  its 
bhc  money  should  bo 
by  law,  and  under  like 
I  be  imagined  that  the 

intended  that  a  treas- 


1845.J 


FinST    ANNUAL    MK.SSAGE. 


197 


ury  should  be  created  as  a  plucc  of  deposit  and  safe-keopinc 
of  the  public  money  which  was  irresponsible  to  the  govern- 
ment. The  first  C^ongress  under  the  constitution,  by  the  act 
of  tlio  second  September,.  1789,  •' to  establish  the  Treasury 
Department,"  provided  for  the  appointment  of  a  treasnrer, 
and  made  it  his  duty  "  to  receive  ;;nd  keep  the  moneys  of  the 
United  States,"  and  "  at  all  times  to  submit  to  the  Secretary 
of  the  Treasury  and  th((  Comptroller,  or  either  of  them,  the 
inspection  of  the  moneys  in  his  hands." 

That  banks,  national  or  State,  could  not  have  been  intp  ided 
to  be  used  as  a  substitute  for  the  treasury  spoken  of  in  the 
constitution,  as  keepers  of  the  public  montty,  is  manifest  fronj 
the  fact,  that  at  that  time  thei'e  was  no  national  bank,  and 
but  three  or  four  Statf;  banks  of  limited  capital  existed  in  the 
country.     Their  em|)loyinent  as  depositories  was  at  first  re- 
sorted to,  to  a  limited  extent,  but  with  no  avowed  intention 
of  contiiuiing  them  peiinanently,  in  phuje  of  the  treasury  of 
the  constitution.     When  they  were  afterwjuds  from  time  to 
time  employed,  't  was  fnjrn  moliv(!s  of  supposed  convenience. 
Our  experience  has  shown,  that  wiien  banking  corporation.s 
have  been  the  keepers  of  tlie  pul)lic  money,  and  been  thereby 
made  in  effect  the  treasury,  t!ie  government  can  have  no  iruar- 
nnty  that  it  can  command  the  use  of  its  own  money  for  pub- 
lic purposes.     The  late   Hank  of  the  I'nited  States  proved 
to  be  faithless.     'I'lic  Slate  banks,  wiiich  were  afterwards  em- 
ployed,  were  faithless.     Jiut  a  few  years  ago,  with  millions  of 
j)uhlic  money  in  their  keeping,  the  government  wiui  brought 
almost  to  bankruptc\-,  and  the  public  credit  seriously  im- 
paired, because  of  their  inability  or  indisp(jsition  to  pay,  on 
demand,  to  the  public  creditors,  in  the  only  currency  rcco-r- 
nized  by  the  constitution,     'i. heir  failure  occurred  in  u  period 
of  peace,  and  great  inconvenience  and  loss  were  suffered  by 
the  public  from  it.     Had  the  country  been  involved  in  a  for- 
eign war,  that  inconvenience  and  loss  would  have  been  much 
greater,  and  might  have  resulted  in  extreme  public  calamity. 


-T'^Tt.«*9J»','itf:i''^' "" 


;;jv^^Ta^''^^;jSS-iiggc:'S''jiab'S:j!tTja;^v..^^^^;iBK),^9ii';j_jff^ 


198 


JAMES   KNOX   POI-K. 


Iisi:.. 


« i....-."t ,.. o.« I"'""""'-'. 7„    ■„.„,,  1 ..1  ...> 

■„  ,o„ve,f.l  ml"  !»'*»:<  "I""',       ,  , .     .  „,„1  >vl„.,.  ••  .I'-l 
1„,  (,wv,usthcc.iH.Mii  18.10,  11  m  )  ,^^, 

tn-asury  confmplatP.    I>y  i  ^,^^^^  iho  mon.y 

„,,  .onstitufu-n  could  -      /    \^ ^  oonv.,-...a  to  pm.Ue 
.,;,id  into  tlu.  tn<as«ry  nhmUl  It  U         .,^„^.,,„. 

l,,nUs  xvl.loh  hold  the  ,m  .1..;.  n  o    v  a  .\,i,.,.,,,,^. 

,  .1.-SMV  to  >.ain.  to  extend  ihe.r  1™u-h     > 
,..,  „„a  thus  stinudjued  not, .nn,.^ 

to  thousands.     It  tiK  pu  .  ^      ^^^  ,i,^. 

,Ws  used,  hut  bo  ke,.  nyl..     .■    ->  ;^^^ 

public  cr..ditors  in  --Id  and  ^'»^^''/  '         '  ^.  „,  ..f  u,.ir  bu.i- 
L  doposite  .i,h  banks  to  an  u,ub..    M- ^^ 

,,.      ,,.ndb.cl.c^.l.bd^^^ 

tional  cunvncyHt  "^  ^''^^        .  „,  ,,„d  disbursements,  and 

e,  can  be  «c,,.d  «|-',,X      tbu:  f,™  »v.-l»...» 
slons,  suspensions,  and  dttaluuion,  ^^^^^^,^^_ 

over-trading,  an  ordinate  desu.  fog-,-  ^^^^^  ,^,  ^^^^^^_,^ 
they  are  constantly  exposed.  Ih  Sm. u  y  ^  ^^^^^^ ^^^  ^  _ 
,Ji„ancases..hen  ..^aspr^  bU^  .J;  the  pledge  oi 
curitv  for  the  amount  which  tliey  i       .  ^^^  .^ 

stocks  of  the  United  State.,  or  such  of  the  btatcs 


1 


(ISl,-). 

,iili  tho  piiviilo 

foi-  piivatt!  pur- 

kiM'piiii,'.  it  '^  '" 

iDiiiu'il  liy  tli'in 

he  puhlK-   Ill'ilU'V 

I  iiiiil  loiincil  mit 
ami  wli''i>  '•■ill'''l 
ii,.  pi.i'ki'ls  ol'  I  lit! 
i,^r  ill   ihi',   pulilii- 
The  fniiiK'M  nf 
,  ihiii  tlio  moiK'y 
vcrlcil  to  priviito 
fovcruniful. 
often  tempted,  by 
•(.;IS0  tlit'ii-  ciiTuU- 
piril  (.f  siH'culalioii 
uist  result  ill  iiii'i 
)t  pel-milled  to  1)'? 
1,1  piiid  out  to  the 
[)t;iiinii  iitVonUd  l>y 
usiou  of  llieir  l)U>i- 
Mt  of  the  cnuslilu- 
l,(,  enliir^ed,  t)y  its 
disbursements,  and 
•nee,  be  found  m  a 

lis  depo3itori(!S,  h\\> 
(iliyUie.  public  mnii 
iiiul  i:xcesses,  rev  id 
ifh,  from  over-issues 
uiii,  or  other  ciuises- 
■lary  of  the  Treiisuiv 
,  taken  collaterid  se- 
1,  by  the  pled;,'e  ut 
;he  States  as  were  iu 


181.').] 


FIRST    ANNUAL    MKSSAfii: 


100 


|l;.iii(1  cfedit.  Btiine  of  ill"  deposlte  banks  have  (fivon  tlii-t 
(leM-riptioii  of  Heeurily,  and  others  hiive  declined  to  do  so. 

ilnterlnininL,'  tli<'  opinion  thai  "  the  separation  of  the  numevs 
of  the  novernmenl  fiom  Ijaiikin-- institutions  is  ind'wpi'iisaiile 
lor  the  safety  of  I  lie  funds  of  the  irovemment  and  thn  ri^rliis 
of  the  people,"  I  recnnwnend  to  Coni^'ress  that  jirovisioti  li  • 
niiule  liv  law  for  sifh  s<'paralion,  and  that  a  eoiislitutioiial 
(ria>ury  be  en-ati'd  for  the  safe  kei'pin'.j  of  the  public  n\pney. 
The  eoMsiiiulional  treasury  reeoininended  is  desii,'ned  as  a  se- 
euie  depository  for  the  pid)lie  money,  without  any  |io\ver  to 
make  loans  or  diseounts,  or  to  i-sue  any  j)aper  whatever  as  a 
curreiiev  or  rirculation.  1  cannot  (loul)l  tliai  sudi  a  Ireasury 
as  was  eonlempliiled  by  the  constilulion,  should  lu:  iiulepend- 
eiil  of  all  lijinkini,'  eorporalions.  The  money  of  tho  peojdo 
sJK.uld  bi!  kept  in  the  treasury  of  the  people  created  by  law, 
and  be  in  the  custody  of  ai,'ents  of  the  people  chosen  by 
tliem>elves,  aecordinjf  to  the  form  of  the  constilulion ;  ajjeiits 
wiio  are  directlv  responsible  to  the  ^'overnment,  who  arc  un- 
der ade(|uale  bonds  and  nalhs,  and  who  are  subject  to  severe 
pnnir-hnienls  for  any  einbez/h'menl,  private  use,  or  misappli- 
calion  of  the  public  funds,  and  for  any  failure  in  other  respects 
to  perf.irm  their  duties.  To  say  that  llit^  peojdc  of  their  gov- 
ernment are  incompetent,  or  not  to  be  lru><led  with  the  cus- 
tody of  their  own  money,  in  their  own  treasury,  provided  by 
Ihemselves,  but  must  rely  on  the  presidents,  cashiers,  and 
stockholders  of  bunking  corporations,  not  appointed  by  tht  i, 
nor  responsible  to  them,  would  be  to  concede  that  they  are 
incompetent  for  self-government. 

In  recommending  the  establishment  of  a  constitutional 
treasury,  in  which  the  public  money  shall  be  kept,  1  desire 
that  adequate  provision  be  made  by  law  for  its  safety,  and 
tliat  all  executive  discretion  or  control  over  it  shall  be  remov- 
ed, e.Kcept  such  as  may  be  necessary  in  directing  its  dis- 
bursements in  pursuance  of  appropriations  made  by  law. 

Under  our  present  land  system,  limiting  the  minimum  price 


»..  .'j.Jji.VJa.mUti.VIMJU-IUl'isaagJ.S.  ■llW.'!»gl:'<J!ViJ!»;;- 


200 


JAMES  KNOX  POLK. 


[1845 


at  which  the  public  land,  can  be  entovcd  t.  -  d^!.    -;, 

t-ntytive  cents  p^-  -^^j—  n:^;:!;:L;a  t,.. 

duality  remmn  unsold,  becau^c  incy  «.u 
;  ce.     From  the  records  of  the  General  Land  ^^^^^J^^ 
n   n-s  that  of  the  public  lands  remaunng  unsold  m  the  sevc 

,,,,   „e.»,,»™w„>»- 
.h„„»„<l  and  si.  l.«mlml  ■»■«.  lor  »»«  ll.»n  l^™  )  J- 1  '"^ 

,      J  „,i  nn,1  siv  millions  one  hundred  and  sestniy  six 

r::-uns:^;^:^i^n'i--i'---^'tr^^ 

Z^l  that  the  price  be  graduated  and  re  uc^^^w  U. 
present  minimum  rate,  contin.ng  the  sa  es  at  'if^'^'ll 
ces  to  settlers  and  cultivators  in  hmited  quantities.     If  guid 
^.ted  and    educed  in  price  for  a  limited  term  to  one  dollar  per 
^e      Id  after  the  expiration  of  that  period,  for  a  second  and 
1  rd  t"nn  to  lower  rates  ,  a  large  portion  of  these  lands  would 
^:;l;SLd,andmanyworthycitize,.,whoareunaUe^^^ 
Lher  rates  could  purchase  homes  tor  themselves  and  thur 
■  mis     By  adopting  the  policy  of  graduation  and  reduc  lon 

of  p  ce.  tlie  inferior  lands  will  be  s„ld  for  the.v  real  vaUi., 
wirt  e  states  in  which  they  he  will  be  f.-eed  from  the  u. 
lonvenience.  if  not  injustice  to  whi-.h  they  are  -bjeeted;.; 
consequence  of  the  United  States  contmu.ng  ^o  own  U  ,c 
quantities  of  public  lands  within  thc.r  borders,  not  liable 
texation  for  the  support  of  their  local  governments. 


L1845 

)  one  dolKi     iind 
if  liinJsof  inforiiir 
)t  commiind  that 
iuid  Office  it  iip- 
isold  ill  the  sevc- 
tuated,  thiruy-nino 
hundred  and  sev- 
subject  to  entry, 
s  six  hundred  and 
rty-four  acres  for 
ilions  seventy-four 
lan  ten  years ;  and 
d  and  seventy-six 
for  more  than  live 
hinds  will  continue 
vhich  they  are  per- 
)ries  of  lands  from 
t  been  selected  are 
rnment.     With  the 
iferior  lands,  I  rec- 
reduced  below  the 
at  the  reduced  pri- 
uiuUities.     If  grad- 
rm  to  one  dollar  per 
jd,  for  a  second  and 
of  these  lands  would 
ho  are  unable  to  pti) 
,hemselves  and  their 
lation  and  reduction 
for  their  real  value, 
3  freed  from  the  in- 
>ey  are  subjected,  in 
inning  to  own  large 
jorders,  not  liable  to 
vernments. 


18t5.J 


FIRST    ANNUAL    MESSAOE. 


201 


1  recommend  the  continuance  of  tlie  policy  of  granting  pre- 
^•mplions,  in  its  most  liberal  extent,  to  all  tliose  who  have 
settled,  or  may  hereafter  settle,  on  the  public  Imds,  whetiier 
survoyea  or  unsurveyed,  to  which  the  Indian  title  may  have 
been  extinguished  at  the  time  of  settlement.  It  has  been 
found  by  experience,  that  in  consequence  of  combinations  of 
purcliasers  and  other  causes,  a  very  small  quantity  of  the 
pulilic  lands,  when  sold  at  public  auction,  commands  a  higher 
price  than  the  minimum  rate  established  by  law.  The  settlers 
on  tlic  public  lands  are,  however,  but  rarely  able  to  secure 
their  homes  and  improvements  at  the  public  sales  at  that  rate ; 
because  these  combinations,  by  means  of  the  capitiU  they 
command,  and  tiieir  superior  ab.lity  to  purchase,  render  it  im- 
])ossible  for  the  settler  to  comp^  le  with  them  in  the  market, 
liy  putting  down  all  competition,  these  combinations  of  capi- 
talists and  speculators  are  usually  enabled  to  purchase  the 
lands,  including  the  improvements  of  the  settlers,  at  the  mini- 
mum price  of  the  government,  and  either  turn  them  out  of 
their  homes,  or  extort  from  them,  according  to  their  ability  to 
])ny,  double  or  quadrup'2  the  amount  paid  for  them  to  the 
H'overnment.  It  is  to  t!;e  enterprise  and  perseveranca  of  the 
hardy  pioneers  of  the  west,  who  penetrate  the  wilderness  with 
their  families,  suffer  the  dangers,  the  privations  and  hardships 
attending  the  settlement  of  a  new  country,  and  prepare  the 
way  for  the  body  of  emigrauts  who,  in  the  course  of  a  few 
years,  usually  follow  them,  that  we  are,  in  a  great  degree,  in- 
indi,'bted  for  the  rapid  extension  and  aggrandizement  of  our 
country. 

Experience  has  proved  that  no  portion  of  our  population 
are  more  patriotic  than  the  hardy  and  brave  men  of  the  fron- 
1'  ;r,  or  more  ready  to  obey  the  call  of  their  country,  and  to 
defend  her  rights  and  her  honor,  whenever  and  by  whatever 
<;nemy  assailed.  They  should  be  protected  from  the  grasp- 
ing speculator,  and  secured,  at  the  minimum  price  of  tne 
public  lands,  in  the  humble  homes  which  they  have  improved 
9* 


1 


.-':au;»"a''-T^tinp3rj 


202 


JAMES  KNOX  FOLK. 


[1845. 


by  their  labor.  With  this  end  in  view,  all  vexat.ou  or  un- 
necessary restrictions  imposed  upon  t^-  by  ^^^  ^if ^Ij^  l^ 
emption  laws,  should  be  repealed  or  modified.  It  is  the  tu  e 
policy  of  the  government  to  afford  facilities  to  its  citizens  o 
Slme  the  owners  of  small  portions  of  our  vast  pubhc  domain 

at  low  and  moderate  rates.  ,  ,     i    „f  fi,„ 

The  present  system  of  managing  the  mmeral  lands  of  the 

United'states  I  beheved  to  be  rffy'^'^f^l^^'^Z 
thanarjmonof  acresof  the  publiclands,  supposed  to    0^^^^^^^^ 

lead  and  other  minerals,  have  been  reserved    rom  sale  and 
numerous  leases  upon  them  have  been  g-^ed  -;;^^;^^ 
upon  a  stipulated  rent.     The  system  of  grantmg  leases  has 
pLed  to'be  not  only  unprofitable  to  the  gov™  nt.  bu, 
unsatisfactory  to  the  citizens  who  have  gone  upon  the    and^ 
and  must,  if  continued,  lay  the  foundation  of  ^^'^  ^f^\' 
d^culty  between  the  government  and  the  lessees.     Ac  ord- 
Tg  to   he  official  records,  the  amount  oVT':/"  TL/ 
tlfe  government  for  the  years  1841.  184-2,  1843.  and  1844^ 
W.S  $6  3^4.74,  while  the  expenses  of  the  system  dunng  the 
Ime  perbd,  ii^cluding  salaries  of  superintendents,  agents 
Ss 'and  incidental  expenses,  were  twenty-six  tho^and  o^ 
hundred  and  eleven  dollars  and  eleven  cents  -the  mcome 
being  less  than  one-fourth  of  the  expenses     To  this  pccum 
L;  foss  may  be  added  the  injury  sustamed  ^v  the  p^    n 
consecuence  of  the  destruction  of  timber,  and  the  careless 
ard  wtst   ul  manner  of  working  the  mines     The  system  has 
^htn  rise  to  much  litigation  between  the  Unitedjt^^^^^^^ 
fndividual  citizens,  producing  ii-ntation  and  «-«*  >"jj« 
mineral  region,  and  involving  the  government  in  hea^y  add. 
rnalexpLilures.     It  is  believed  that  si-  -  1^^^^^^^^^^^^^ 
embarrassments  will  continue  to  occur,  wbib  the   pre  ent 
system  of  leasing  these  lands  remains  --hanged       Ihe  o 
lands  are  now  under  the  superintendence  and  ^are  «f  ^^^^^^ 
War  Department,  with  the  ordinary  duties  of  ^^f'^^l 
have  no  proper  or  natural  connexion.    1  recommend  the  re- 


[1845. 

vexatious  or  wn- 
the  existing  pre- 
i.  It  is  tho  true 
5  to  its  citizens  to 
ast  public  domain 

eral  lands  of  the 
defective.  More 
pposed  to  contain 
d  from  sale,  and 
,ted  to  individuals 
•anting  leases  has 
>  government,  but 
3  upon  the  lands, 
I  of  much  future 
lessees.  Accord- 
ronts  received  by 

1843, and  1844, 
system  during  the 
ntendents,  agents, 
y-six  thousand  one 
ents  —  the  income 
i.  To  this  pecuni- 
d  by  the  public  in 
•,  and  the  careless 
The  system  has 
United  States  and 
i  excitement  in  the 
ent  in  heavy  addi- 

similar  losses  and 
while  the  present 
mchanged.  These 
',e  and  care  of  the 
ties  of  which  they 
recommend  the  re- 


1845.  J 


FIRST    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


208 


peal  of  the  present  system,  nnd  tliiit  flicso  lands  he  planed 
under  the  superintendence  and  nianagfnient  of  tlie  (ieiieral 
Land  Office,  as  other  public  lands,  and  be  brouglit  into  niiir- 
ket  and  sold  upon  sucli  terms  as  Conijress  in  tlieir-wisdoiu 
may  prescribe,  reserving  to  (lie  gdverninent  an  e([uitabl'^  p'T 
centagc  of  the  gross  amount  of  mineral  product,  and  that  tin; 
proi'inption  principle  be  extended  to  resident  miners  and  set- 
tlers upon  them,  at  the  niiiiinuim  price  which  mav  be  esfah- 
lislied  by  Congress. 

1  refer  you  to  the  accompanying  report  of  tlie  Secretary 
of  War,  for  information  respeeiing  the  present  situation  of 
tiie  army,  and  its  operations  during  tiie  past  year;  the  state 
of  our  defences  ;  the  condition  of  tin'  puhlic  works  ;  and  our 
relations  with  the  various  Indian  uilies  within  our  limits  or 
upon  our  borders.  I  invite  your  utli'iuinn  to  the  suggestions 
contained  in  that  report,  in  relation  to  these  prominent  objects 
of  national  interest. 

When  orders  were  given  during  f  lie  past  summer  for  concen- 
trating a  military  force  on  the  western  frontier  of  'J'exas,  our 
troops  were  widely  dispersed,  and  in  small  detachments,  occu- 
pying posts  remote  from  eacli  other.  'Hie  prompt  and  expedi- 
tious manner  in  which  an  army,  embracing  more  than  half  our 
peace  establishment,  was  drawn  togetiier  on  an  emergency  so 
sudden,  reflects  great  credit  on  the  officers  who  were  entrusted 
with  the  execution  of  these  orders,  as  well  as  upon  the  disci- 
pline of  the  army  itself.  " 

To  be  in  strength  to  protect  and  defend  the  people  and 
territory  of  Texas,  in  the  event  Mexico  should  commence 
hostilities,  or  invade  her  territories  with  a  large  army,  which  she 
threatened,  I  authorized  the  general  assigned  to  the  command 
of  the  army  of  occupation  to  make  requisitions  for  additionid 
forces  from  several  of  the  States  nearest  the  Texan  territory, 
and  which  could  most  expeditiously  furiiisli  tliem,  if,  in  liis 
opinion,  a  larger  force  than  that  under  his  command,  and  the 
auxiliary  aid  which,  under  like  circumstances,  he  was  author- 


^t'.'.-^^.^^V^.^jJH 


Mpijl.^  I   M  J  ."li— 


204 


JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


[1845. 


izcd  to  receive  from  Texas,  should  be  required.     Ihc  con 
,enc    upon  .hich  the  exercise  of  this  authonty  depend  d. 
not  occurred      The  circumstances  under  ^vh.ch  two  com- 
p^^c^X: ttillery  from  the  city  of  New  OHe^s  were 
^t  into  Tex.m,  and  mustered  into  the  service  of  the  Lmltd 
States  arc  full  •  sUxted  in  the  report  of  the  Secretary  of  W  a. 
I      co'nrond  to  Congress  that   provision  be  made  for  t>K, 
;.;:rrthese  troojs.  as  well  as  the  small  "-  ^^^  - 
in  volunteers,  whom  the    commandn,g    general  thought 
nopo^sarv  to  receive  or  muster  into  our  service. 

DU.S   h    last  summer,  the  first  regiment  of  dragoons 
n,adextenive  excursions  through  the  Indian  country  onoui 
bold  .."a  part  of  .hem  advancing  nearly  to  the  possess.o.  s 
o  t  Hudson's  nay  Company  in  tl.  no..h,  -d  ^^   ^^ 
as  the  South  Pass  of  the   llocky  ^ -"^'^'"^  "' j  ^'^v    , 
tders  of  the  tiibutarv  streams  of  the  Colorado  of  he  \\ .  st. 
Tl       xh  b  ion  of  thiJ  military  force  among  the  Indian  tribe 
in   hos    distant  regions,  and  the  councils  held  with  them  bj 
L  commanders  of  the  expeditions,  it  is-beheved   will  have  a 
S^.~  fluence  in  restr^ning  them  from  hosUhties  aiuong 
S^msdves,  and  maintaining  friendly  relations  -^^>    ^- 
and  the  United  States.     An  interesting  accoun    of  one  ot 
tlese  excursions  accompanies  the  report  of  the  Secretary  of 
War     Under  the  directions  of  the  War  Department,  Crev  c 
CapUin  Fremont,  of  the  corps  of  topographical  engineer. 
hi'l' en  employed  since  1842  in  exploring  the  country  west 
of  the  Mississippi,  and  beyond  tl- Rocky  Mountains,     i^^ 
expeditions  have  already  been  brought  to  a  close,  and  tl  e  e^ 
porUof  that  scientific  and  enterprising  officer  have  furnished 
':  cVLeresting  and  valuable  information.     He  .s  ncnv  en 
.a.red  in  a  third  expedition  ;  but  it  is  not  expected    hat  this 
.     Sous  service  wiU  be  completed  in  season  to  enable  me  to 
communicate  the  result  to  Congress  at  the  present  session. 
X'lations  with  the  Indian  tribes  are  of  a  favorable  char- 
acter.     The  policy  of  removing  them  to  a  country  designed 


[184c 


1845.] 


FIRST    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


205 


ircd.     The  con- 
hority  depended, ' 
which  two  com- 
ew  Orleans  were 
ice  of  the  United 
secretary  of  War.  _ 
be  made  for  the 
11  number  of  Tex- 
eneral  thought  it 
lice. 

Tient  of  dragoons 
lan  country  on  our 
to  the  possessions 
,  and  a  part  as  far 
ns,  and  the  liead 
jrado  of  the  West. 
ir  the  Indian  tribes 
held  with  them  by 
jlieved,  will  have  a 
n  hostilities  among 
.ions  between  them 
account  of  one  of 
if  the  Secretary  of 
Department,  Brevet, 
;raphical  engineers, 
g  the  country  west 
y  Mountains.     Two 
a  close,  and  the  re- 
ficer  have  furnished 
an.     He  is  now  en- 
t  expected  that  this 
ison  to  enable  me  to 
le  present  session. 
;  of  a  favorable  char- 
3  a  country  designed 


for  their  permanent  residence  west  of  tlio  MissLssippi,  and 
witliout  the  limits  of  the  organized  States  and  territories,  is 
bi'tte  •  appreciated  by  tliem  tiian  it  was  a  few  years  ago ; 
wliile  education  is  now  attended  to,  and  the  habits  of  civil- 
ized life  are  gaining  ground  among  them. 

Serious  difficulties  of  lung  standing  continue  to  distract  tiu; 
several  parties  into  wliicli  the  Clierokees  are  uniiappiiy  di- 
vided. 'Die  eflurts  of  tlie  government  to  adjust  the  diilicul- 
ties  between  them  have  heretofore  proved  unsuccessful ;  and 
there  remains  no  probability  tiial  this  desirable  object  can  bo 
accomplished  witliout  the  aid  of  further  legislation  by  Con- 
gress. I  will,  at  an  early  period  of  )our  session,  present  the 
subject  for  your  consideralion,  accomj)anied  with  an  exposi- 
tion of  the  complaints  and  claims  of  tiie  several  parlies  into 
wiiich  tiie  nation  is  divided,  wilii  a  view  to  the  adoption  of 
such  measures  by  Congress  as  may  enable  the  Executive  to 
do  justice  to  them  respectively,  and  lo  put  an  end,  if  possible, 
to  the  dissensions  which  have  long  prevailed,  and  still  prevail, 
among  them. 

I  refer  jou  to  the  report  of  the  Secretary  of  the  Navy  for 
the  present  condition  of  tliat  branch  of  the  national  defence, 
and  for  grave  suggestions,  having  for  tiieir  object  the  increase 
of  its  efficiency,  and  a  greater  economy  in  its  management. 
During  the  past  year,  the  officers  and  men  have  performed 
their  duty  in  a  satisfactory  manner.  The  orders  which  have 
been  given,  have  been  executed  with  promptness  and  fidelity. 
A  larger  force  than  has  often  formed  one  scjuadron  under  our 
flag,  was  readily  concentrated  in  the  Gulf  of  Mexico,  and 
apparently  without  unusual  effort.  It  is  especially  to  be  ob- 
served, that  notwithstanding  the  union  of  so  considerable  a 
force,  no  act  was  committed  that  even  the  jealousy  of  an  irri- 
tated power  could  construe  sis  an  act  of  aggression  ;  and  that 
the  commander  of  the  squadron,  and  his  officers,  in  strict 
conformity  to  their  instructions,  holding  themselves  ever  ready 
for  the  most  active  duty,  have  achieved  the  still  purer  glory 


^HrJi^JIt;  >i^-4'-U.I 


206 


JAMES   KNOX    rOLK. 


[18,15. 


of  contvibuting  to  the  P--aUon  oj^'  ^^  L^  ^^^ 
that  at  all  our  foreign  ^^^^^^^^^^ T^^e  bo-n 
n,aintaincd,  and  that,  g-^;™" > !  "^"^  ^  f ,,a,,,  I  am  happy 
distinguished  for  then-  good  <l.sc  plme  and  o  d  ._i^^ 

to  add,  that  the  display  of  m--'  -"^-^  ^^  I  ^  k.Uv  vitlun 

by  the  events  of  tho  summer  has  been  made  ^^h     . 

the  usual  appropriations  for  the  service  of  the  year  , 

„o  additional  appropriations  are  req«n.d^  ^^^^  ^^^^._ 

J„  be.  it  b»  boon  a  w„»  !»''«  °  "'J't,  ai  .ftutod  In 
„„l  intere*  prolection  .lU,  our  j  P»  »•  ™'  "j  j-or  moro 
,begreathigl.w»yB»ttmdolbrougbout  be«rid^  ^ 

,b»n  thirty  years  appropna  ,o„s  ha>e  been  made 

.„y  expended,  for  '';;«;*:;:;r,:'d:.   o,  proteeOng 

r:i«»T;x:™n.;f.ar,.u,be,a.it,,o, 

'Tjre*r;™:=i-";tio„o„  t,.  oooa„ ,,. 
bee"u:::rbyt,.o  i„trodac.„„  »';j— :»;:^ ;: 

and  increasing  n„a,be„,nto  J;" -;-  /^  J™:'!  ^^(o., 
r  .r:  *e"iontt:r  :rgea»ainerea,i„g  eojn- 

S:CiS''a:;dte:o,uader  «er  and  ^  a  state 


X 


■"i<-e.".!,i' 


[18.15. 

cc.  Ttis  boVu!VC(l 
,f  our  ting  Iws  bt'ca 
;  of  war  have  hwn 
order.  I  am  happy 
which  was  roquinul 
made  wholly  willun 
if  the  year  ;  so  that 

nd  with  it  the  navi- 
f  increased  since  the 
is  believed,  we  are 
Id,  and  at  no  distant 
e.     Exposed  as  they 
Ford  to  these  import- 
f  war,  distributed  in 
the  world.    For  more 
een  made,  and  annu- 
.  of  our  naval  forces, 
int  duty  of  protecting 
■ar,  will  be,  as  it  has 

ion  on  the  ocean  has 
war-steamers  in  great 
of  the  principal  mari- 
rard  to  our  own  safety 
ge  and  increasing  com- 
ase  on  our  part.     Ko 
nstruction  of  vessels  of 
ise  itself  greater  ad  van- 
are  admirably  adapted 
>  the  rapid  transmission 
nee.     In  pursuance  of 
of  our  navy,  large  sup- 
terials  for  ship  building, 
er  shelter  and  in  a  state 


1845.] 


FinST   ANVUAL    MESSAfiK. 


20T 


of  good  preservation,  Avliilo  iron  sd'amers  can  be  built  witli 
groat  facility  in  various  parts  of  tiie  Union. 

The  use  of  iron  i'.s  a  material,  especially  in  the  construction 
of  steamers,  wliich  can  enter  with  s!if(>ty  many  of  the  harbors 
along  our  coast  now  itiacccssible  to  vessels  of  greater  dranglit, 
and  the  practicability  of  constructing  them  in  the  interior, 
strongly  recommends  that  liberal  appropriations  shoidd  be 
made  for  this  important  object.     Whatever  may  have  been 
our  jjolicy  in  the  earlier  stages  of  the  government,  when  the 
nation  was  in  its  infancy,  our  shipping  interests  and  commerce 
comparatively  small,  our  resources  limited,  our  population 
sparse,  and  scarcely  extending  beyond  tlie  limits  of  tiie  orig- 
inal thirteen  states,   that  policy  must  be  essentially  ditl'erent 
now  that  we  have  grown  from  three   to  more  than  twenty 
millions  of  people,— that  our  commerce,  carried  in  our  own 
ships,  is  found  in  every  sea,  and  that  our  territorial  bounda- 
ries and  settlements  have  been  so  greatly  expanded.    Neither 
our  oommerce,  nor  our  long  Ijne  of  coast  on  the  ocean  and  on 
the  lakes,   can  be  successfully  defended  against  foreign  ag- 
gression by  means  of  fortifications  alone.     These  are  essential 
at  important  commercial  and  military  points,  but  our  chief 
reliance  for  this  object  must  be  on  a  well  organized,  efficient 
navy.     The  benefits  resulting  from  such  a  navy  are  not  con- 
fined to  the  Atlantic  states.     The  productions  of  the  interior 
which  seek  a  market  abroad,  are  directly  dependent  on  the 
safety  and  freedom  of  our  commerce.    The  occupation  of  the 
lialize  below  New  Orleans  by  a  hostile  force  would  embar- 
rass, if  not  stagnate,  the  whole  export  trade  of  the  Mississip- 
pi, and  affect  t!ie  valley  of  the  agricultural  products  of  the 
entire  valley  of  that  mighty  river  and  its  tributaries. 

It  has  never  been  our  policy  to  maintain  large  standing 
armies  in  time  of  peace.  They  are  contrary  to  the  genius  of 
our  free  institutions,  would  impose  heavy  burdens  on  the 
people,  and  be  dangeious  to  public  hberty.  Our  reliance  for 
protection  and  defence  on  the  land  n-ost  be  mainly  on  our 


■  WMM»i.r.iiwuna^.;Wi'Hi 


208 


J\MES   KNOX    POLK. 


fl845. 


citizen  soldiers,  who  y.\\\  be  ever  ready,  ns  tiiey  ever  luivc 
been  readv  in  times  past,  to  rush  with  alaenty.  at  the  call  of 
their  counlvv,  to  her  defence.  This  description  of  force,  how- 
ever cannot  defend  our  coasts,  harbors,  and  udand  seas  nor 
protect  our  commerce  on  the  ocean  or  the  lakes.  Ihese 
must  be  protected  by  our  navy.  •  „       f 

Considering  an  increased*  naval  force,  and  especially  of 
Bteam  vessels,  corresponding  with  our  growth  and  impor- 
tance a8  a  nation,  and  proportioned  to  the  increasing  naval 
force  of  other  nations,  of  vast  importance  as  regards  our 
safety,  and  the  great  and  growing  interests  to  be  protected 
by  it,  I  recommend  the  subject  to  the  favorable  consideration 

"'^mreportof  the  Post  Master  General  herewith  commu- 
nicat'ed,  contains  a  detaiU-d  statement  of  the  operations  of  Ins 
department  during  the  past  year.     It  will  be  seen  that  l^e 
incLe  from  postages  will  fall  short  of  tbe  ejpend.tur^  for 
the  year  between  one  and  two  unlhons  of  dollai-s      Ih.s  de- 
ficiency has  been  caused  by  the  reduction  of  the  rates  of 
postage,  whicli  was  made  by  the  act  of  the  nd  of  March  la  t. 
No  principle  has  been  more  generally  acquiesced  m  by  the 
people  than  that  this  department  should  sustain  itself  by  hm- 
fting  its  expenditures  to  its  income.      Congress  has  never 
sought  to  make  it  a  source  of  revenue  for  general  Purposes, 
except  for  a  short  period  during  the  last  war  with  Great  hi. t- 
ain,  Lr  should  it  ever  become  a  charge  on  the  genera  treas 
urv      If  Congress  shall  adhere  to  this  principle,  as  I  think 
thev  ou«ht,  it  will  be  necessary  eitlu-r  lu  curtail  the  present 
mail  .enice,  so  as  to  reduce  the  expenditures,  or  so  to  mod- 
ify i1>e  act  of  the  third  of  March  la.st  as  to  '"^P™^-^' >';;^^-*>- 
nue^      The  extension  of  the  mail  service,  and  the  addiUona 
facilities  which  will  be  demanded  by  the  rapid  extension  and 
increase  of  population.on  our  western  frontier,  will  not  admit 
of  ircurtailment  as  will  mMerially  reduce  the  present  ex- 
penditures.    In  the  adjustment  of  the  Urift  of  postages,  the 


fl845. 

IS  they  ever  hiivc 
rity,  iit  the  cull  of 
plion  of  force,  liow- 
(1  inliind  sens,  nor 
the  lakes.     Tliese 

and  especially  of 
;rowth  and  impor- 
he  increasing  naval 
ice  as  regards  our 
!8t8  to  be  protected 
orable  consideration 

il  herewith  commu- 
he  operations  of  his 
ill  be  seen  that  the 
the  expenditures  for 
)f  dollai-8.     This  de- 
tion  of  the  rates  of 
M  P,d  of  Marcli  last, 
icquiesced  in  by  tlie 
sustain  itself  by  lim- 
Congress  has  never 
for  general  purposes, 
;  war  with  Great  Brit- 
on the  general  treas- 
pnnci])li',  as  1  think 
u  cuitail  the  present 
ilitures,  or  so  to  mod- 
is  to  improve  its  reve- 
ce,  and  the  additional 
le  rajiid  extension  and 
rontier,  will  not  admit 
•educe  the  present  ex- 
Uriftof  postages,  the 


1845.J 


FIRST   ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


209 


int«!rest  of  the  people  demand  that  the  lowest  rates  be  adopted 
wliich  will  produce  the  necessary  rtnenue  to  meet  the  expend- 
itures of  the  department.  I  invite  the  attention  of  Congress 
to  tlio  suggestions  of  tliu  Post  Master  General  on  this  subject, 
under  tlie  belief  tiiat  such  a  modification  of  the  late  law  may 
be  made  as  will  yield  sufficient  revenue  without  further  calls 
on  the  treasury,  and  with  very  little  change  in  the  present 
rates  of  postage. 

Proper  measures  ^lave  been  taken,  in  pursuance  of  the  act 
of  the  third  of  March  last,  for  the  establishment  of  lines  of 
mail  steamers  between  this  and  foreign  countries.  The  im- 
portance of  this  service  coramends  itself  strongly  to  favorable 
consideration. 

With  the  growth  of  our  country,  the  public  business  which 
devolves  on  the  heads  of  the  several  Executive  Departments 
has  greatly  increased.  In  some  inspects,  the  distribution  of 
duties  among  them  seems  to  be  incongruous,  and  many  of 
these  might  be  transferred  from  one  to  another  with  advan- 
tage to  t!ui  public  interests.  A  more  auspicious  time  for  the 
consideration  of  this  subject  by  Congress,  with  a  view  to  sys- 
tem in  the  organization  of  the  several  departments,  and  a 
more  appropriate  division  of  the  public  business,  will  not 
probably  occur. 

The  most  important  duties  of  the  State  Department  relate 
to  our  foreign  affairs.  By  the  great  enlargement  of  the  fami- 
ly of  nations,  the  increase  of  our  commerce,  and  the  corres- 
)K)nding  extension  of  our  consular  system,  the  business  of  this 
department  luis  been  greatly  increased.  \i\  its  present  or- 
ganization, many  duties  of  a  domestic  nature,  and  consisting 
of  details,  are  devolved  on  the  Secretary  of  State,  which  do 
not  appropriately  belong  to  the  foreign  department  of  the 
government,  and  may  properly  be  transferred  to  some  othei 
department.  One  of  these  grows  out  of  the  present  state  ol 
the  law  concerning  the  Patent  Office,  which,  a  few  years  since, 
was  a  subordinate  clerksliip,'  but  has  become  a  distinct  bureau 


210 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1845. 


of  uroat  importanco.  With  an  .•xrcllont  internal  or.mvA^Uou, 
it  is  still  connected  with  tl,e  Stat.  Department.  In  the  tmns- 
acMion  of  its  business,  .,nesti,.,.s  of  much  importance  o  m- 
vontors.  and  to  the  cinmunitv.  fre-iuently  arise  ^vh.rh  hy 
existin.r  laws,  are  referred  for  decision  to  a  board,  of  xvhu-h 
,bo  Secretary  of  State  is  a  member.  These  questions  are 
],„,;i,  a.id  tl>e  connex.m  which  now  exists  between  the  8tat« 
Department  and  tl.e  Patent  Olhce,  may.  with  great  propriety 
aiul  advantage,  be  transferred  to  the  Attorney-GcMjeral 

In  his  last  annual  messao.'  to  Congress,  Mr.  Madi»ou  in- 
vited attention  to  a  proper  provision  for  the  Attorney-Gen- 
eral, "as  an  important  improvement  in  the  executive  estab- 
lishment."    This  recommc.ndation  was  repeated  by  some  of 
bis  successors.     The  olUcial  duties  of  the  Attorney-General 
have  been  much  increased  within  a  few  years,  and  his  office 
has  become  one  of  -reat  important.     His  duties  may  be 
still  further  increased  with  advantage  to  the  public  interests. 
As  an  executive  oflicer,  his  residence  and  constant  attention 
at  tlie  seat  of  government  an^  re>iuired.     Legal  questions  m- 
volvin<^  important  ,.rinciples,  and  large  amounts  of  public 
mone;,  are  constantly  referred  to  him  by  the  President  and 
executive  departments  for  his  examination  and  decision.      1  he 
public  business  under  his  olii.'ial  management  before  tlie  judi- 
ciary has  been  so  au-mented  by  the  extension  of  our  territo- 
ry and  the  acts  of  Congress  authorizing  suits  against  the 
United  States  for  Inrm,  bodies  of  valuable  public  lands,  as 
i-reatly  to  increase  his  labors  and  responsibilities.     1  therefore 
recommend  that  the  Attorney-Cieneral  be  placed  on  the  same 
i;,„tin-  with  the  heads  of  the  other  executive  departments, 
^viih  such  snlx,rdinale  olReers,  provided  by  law  for  his  de- 
partment.  as  may  be  reciuired  to  dischargee  the  additional  du- 
lies  which  have  been  or  may  be  devolved  upon  bim. 

Concrress  possess  the  power  of  exclusive  legislation  over  the 
District  of  Columbia ;  and  I  commend  the  interests  of  its  ui- 
habitants  to  your  favorable  consideration.    The  people  of  thi3 


-  -^— '^^^  ISjW-ifV?^*'^^ 


[1845. 

nnl  nr^^anizntion, 
t.     In  tlie  tmns- 
iportancc  to  in- 
nriso,  which,  by 
board,  of  whicli 
so  quostions  aio 
L'twecn  the  Stiihi 
1  great  propriety 
L'v- General. 
Mr.  Madisou  in- 
le  Attorney-Gen- 
!  executive  cstab- 
■atcd  by  some  of 
Attorney-General 
rs,  and  his  office 
:s  duties  may  lie 
e  public  interests, 
constant  attention 
egal  questions  in- 
niounts  of  public 
the  President  and 
nd  decision.     'Hie 
lit  bet'o;-e  the  judi- 
sion  of  our  territo- 

suits  against  the 
p  public  lands,  as 
lities.  1  therefore 
)laced  on  the  same 
utive  departments, 
[)y  law  for  his  de- 
i  the  additional  du- 
upon  him. 
;  legislation  over  the 
J  interests  of  its  in- 

The  people  of  this 


1845.] 


FIRST   ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


211 


District  have  no  legislative  body  of  their  own,  and  mast  con- 
fide their  local  as  well  as  their  general  interests  to  represent- 
atives in  whose  election  they  have  no  voice,  and  over  whose 
odieial  conduct  they  have  no  control.  Each  member  of  the 
National  Legislature  should  consider  himself  as  their  imme- 
diate representative,  and  should  be  the  more  ready  to  give 
attention  to  their  interests  and  wants,  because  he  is  not  res- 
ponsible to  them.  I  recommend  that  a  liberal  and  generous 
spirit  may  characterize  your  measures  in  relation  to  them.  I 
shall  ever  be  disposed  to  show  a  proper  regard  for  their 
wishes;  and,  within  constitutional  limits,  shall  at  all  times 
cheerfully  cooperate  with  you  for  the  advancement  of  their 
welfare. 

I  trust  it  may  not  be  deemed  inappropriate  to  the  occasion 
for  me  to  dwell  for  a  moment  on  the  memory  of  the  most 
eminent  citizen  of  our  country,  who,  during  the  summer  that 
is  gone  by,  has  descended  to  the  tomb.  The  enjoyment  of 
contemplating,  at  the  advanced  i  go  of  near  fourecore  years, 
the  happy  condition  of  his  country,  cheered  the  hist  hours  of 
Andrew  Jackson,  who  departed  this  life  in  the  tranquil  hope 
of  a  blessed  immortality.  His  death  was  happy,  as  his  life 
had  been  eminently  useful.  He  had  an  unfaltering  confidence 
in  the  virtue  and  capacity  of  the  people,  and  in  the  perma- 
nence of  that  free  government  which  he  had  largely  contrib- 
uted to  esttiblish  and  defend.  His  great  deeds  had  secured  to 
him  the  affections  of  his  fellow-citizens,  and  it  was  his  happi- 
ness to  witness  the  growth  and  glory  of  his  country,  which  he 
loved  so  well.  He  departed  amidst  the  benedictions  of  mill- 
ions of  freemen.  The  nation  paid  its  tribute  to  his  memory 
at  his  tomb.  Coming  generations  will  learn  from  his  example 
the  love  of  country  and  the  rights  of  man.  In  his  language 
on  a  similar  occasion  to  the  present,  "  I  now  commend  you, 
fellow-citizens,  to  the  guidance  of  Almighty  God,  with  a  full 
reliance  on  His  merciful  providence  for  the  maintenance  of 
our  free  institutbns ;  ond  with  an  earnest  supplication,  that. 


212 


JAMES   KNOX   POI-K. 


(1845. 


tl.e  outset,  for  lua  g  u.u.  ^^_^^,    ^^^    .,.^ 

,i„n  ».«l  u..l.«l....ai„s  "f  tl..t  po-t""-  ^^  ,^ 

p„,e,  m  to  tet  V«'-J'  ^         ^i,,,  ,|,e  foreign  rclat.«..s 
Md  i,0I»rta..t  events  conncctoa  (,,„  ovc- 

^  U,c  American  ^—  '^  'Xco  land  U,en  .» 
gon  question,  and  Ao  »ar  «  '  .    ai»b.istr»- 

L.     Fir,,  in  ''-*/,  r:e«thJc.alant,  .» 
Prior  to  the  year  WlJyinev  ^^^^^^^ 

The  first  at  no  tmo  c  a.med    he  ex         ^       ^^^^^.^^_ 
over  the  territory  to  ^vh^ch  U^ere  ^e  ^^^^^  ^^^^^ 

ing  titles;  but  Spam  '^-^  ^  y^^the  former,  pvob- 

itained  an  excluswe  ^f  *' *J«;^\;  Europe  and  her 

■  ably  on  account  onUo^^^^^^^^^^^  g,,,. 


-rTpqsr??^: 


rv  ti^M^-'^J'^''-^?^'^'"^^"'^^ 


J 


(1845. 

in  aisclmrViivj: 
int«,  will  liixl  '>• 
couiwcU." 

rst  annual  mes- 
.  ivbU)  to  form  «. 
ho  cwinti  y  witli 
n'o'xffi  rolrttion!", 
le  laid  down,  at 
ritig  tlie  govern- 
ert  tlicsc  pupcrH 
Ijo  defiueil  in  lii^ 
^rly  Ilia  uppvecia- 

,  of  tln»  worl<,  to 
istrntion.     1  P''^*- 
i  more  promiuont 
le  foreign  relations 
riod,— as  the  Ovc- 
ico,— and  then  to 
of  his  adniiiiistra- 
0  Oregon  question. 
three  claimants  to 
the  United  States, 
jlusivo  sovereignty 
re  so  many  conflict- 
ed States  had  each 
h  the  former,  pvob- 
r  in  Europe  and  her 
d  colonies  in  South 
BtensvoM  by  making 


184.')-C.J  THE  onE(iON  Q(/r:sTtoN. 


2ft 


h"ttIotnents,  or  by  ponnnnontly  occupying  th(«  routitry. 
V.  t,  Spain  always  claimod  tlio  sovereignty  over  the  whole 
iiortliweHt  coast  of  Aiiiorica,  np  to  the  year  I8tl>,  by  con- 
tiguity, wliicl,  i.s  tli«.  right  of  ()n<>  nation  to  prevent  otIierH 
from  (H-ciipying  contigiioiis  territory,  when  the  command 
of  It  is  esHcntial  to  her  security  or  eonvcnicnce.     Aside 
from  this,  the  Spanish  title  was  fomuK-d  upon  original 
•  lisci.vcrirs,  and  it  nnist  be  conceded  to  have  been  better 
fortified  in  this  respect,  than  either  of  the  other  titles. 
'I'he   first  navigator  who  ever  ascended  as  high  as  tho 
4S°  N.  latitude,  on  tho  northwestern  coast  of  America, 
was  Ferrelo,  a  pilot  in  the  service  of  Spain,  who  reached 
that  parallel  in  lot-'J ;   and  in  the  year  1502,  Juan  do 
Fuca,  a  CJreek,  also  in  the  Spanish  service,  discovered 
an<l  sailed  through  the  strait  now  bearing  his  name.    For 
many  years  the  voyage  of  Fuca  was  considered  fabulous, 
because  repeate.l  efforts  were  ma<le,  without  success,  to 
find  the  straits  which  lie  described  ;  but  it  was  afterwards 
ascertained  that  his  account  corresponded  with  tho  geo- 
graphical features  of  the  adjacent  country,  as  settled  by 
tho  exploratioiis  and  examinations  of  subsequent  navi- 
gators. 

For  nearly  two  centuries  the  northwest  coast  of  Amer- 
ica remained  uovisited.  In  1774,  Bucarell,  the  viceroy 
of  Mexico,  commissioned  Juan  Perez  to  proceed,  in  a 
Spanish  corvette  called  tho  Santiago,  to  the  sixtieth  de- 
gree of  north  latitude,  and  from  that  point  to  make  a 
careful  examination  of  the  coast  down  to  Mexico.  Perez 
landed  for  the  first  time,  on  the  northwest  coast  of  Queen 
Charlotte's  Island,  near  latitude  54°  N. ;  he  then  coasted 
along  the  shore  of  that  island,  and  the  great  island  of 


214 


JAMES   KNOX  POLK. 


[1845-6. 


a,^™  and  V».u,e.,  and  *»»  aW  <^^ 
to  Monterey,  in  Cahtoma.     "7™  ";  ,,„  ,,ul, 

the  natives.    He  »a»  the  nm       J  ^_^^,^^,._^j 

irir;fTrAint-ea«ea.*e.. 

Santlago,a„dplaoedUnndert,,eco„™nd^^^D^^^^^^^^^^^^ 

„t..i«.Pe.«^h.c3;2n7;o::l,aB„,,o,a 

Jie  Sonora,  vrhicli  was  commai     ^  ,  -^..^ 

^'■7"%C;:nrd  «  vtrplaces  o'n  the  coast,  be- 
itude.     1  »ey  lanaeu  ai  r  occasion 

t„een  the  41.t  and  67th  r-jf^l^^Z^^,..i„.., 
took  possession  in  *"»"''/«  ^^Ted  al  the  nsual 
.0,  p^escrihed  re^la.|onj  'hy;Sa.a.ions  ^^^^^,„„ 
formalities,  «'«>>'"''*  ""''J,  crosses,  mth  soltaWe  in- 
*«  right  ot  Spa.  and  er^     --.^^  ^^^^  ,^  .„„ 

,cr,pt.ons,  some  of  «..^ehj   ^„j„„Medly  saw  the  mouU. 
English  r,av,ptosHee*n„^^^^^^^^^  ^^^^^^^  _,^ 

ot  the  Columbia  in  1776,  wliicn  supposed  ho 

Heeeta.  F«ni  the  -"»«  ^^^  "  oTa fter  his 
had  diseo.ered  the  month  ot » '»'P  *  .^^  s,„  r^,,,.  ; 
rotnrn  to  Mexico.  '--^*^«;:  ^^,,,„  „;„;„, 
hnt  he  «as  inclined  to  f""?'"  .  aition,  ob- 

f,:rr^:i:s7.er':;.ttremth^e.»totho 

"i8°  of  north  latitade.t 

c    •     /Black'8  Translation)  vol.  U..  p.  316,  et«q. 
.  Humboldt's  New  Spain,  (Black  a  irans. 
t  Humboldt,  ibid.,  ubi  supra. 


r?..."".,,..--.j.i.!ia'a.t.J.]',lJ'J.jM.I.'.' 


s^^^^^^ 


[1845-6. 

ng  the  main  land 
yn  shore  several 

intercourse  with 
m  navigator  that 
ude ;  he  anchored 

called  it  the  port 

;m  fitted  out  the 
land  of  Bruno  He- 
)  a  schooner  called 
Juan  de  la  Bodega 
ssioned  to  examine 
highas65"N.lat- 
s  on  the  coast,  hc- 
l  on  every  occasion 
ovcreign,  according 
;rved  all  the  usual 
clarations  asscrtang 
;s,  -with  suitable  iu- 
(vards  found  by  the 
tedly  saw  the  moutli 
Aled  the  Entrada  de 
iies,  he  supposed  ho 
stream,  and  after  his 
Rio'deSanRoque; 
,atit  was  the  opening 
1  his  expedition,  ob- 
it from  the  27°  to  tho 

;on)vol.ii.,p.316,etwq. 


1845-6.] 


ENGLISH    NAVIGATORS. 


215 


By  virtue  of  these  discoveries,  Spain  laid  exclusive  claim 
to  the  northwestern  coast  of  America,  which  she  never  sur- 
rendered, either  directly  or  indirectly,  until  the  Conven- 
tion of  the  Escurial,  commonly  called  the  Nootka  Sound 
Convention,  which  was  concluded  in  1790,  through  the 
mediation  of  France.  Pending  the  negotiations  whitli 
preceded  this  Convention,  the  Spanish  embassador  at 
Paris,  Count  Fernan  de  Nunez,  in  a  communication  ad- 
dressed to  M.  de  Montmorin,  the  Secretary  of  the  Foreign 
department  of  France,  on  the  16th  of  June,  1790,  insisted 
that  "  by  the  treaties,  demarkations,  takings  of  posses- 
sion, and  the  most  decided  acts  of  sovereignty  exercised 
by  the  Spaniards  in  those  stations,  from  the  reign  of 
Charles  II.,  and  authorized  by  that  monarch  in  1692," 
all  the  coast  of  Northwestern  America,  "  on  the  side  of 
the  South  Sea  [Pacific],  as  far  as  beyond  wliat  is  called 
Prince  William's  Sound,  which  is  in  the  61st  degree," 
belonged  exclusively  to  Spain. 

In  1579-80,  Sir  Fraicis  Drake,  in  cruising  along  the 
western  coast  of  America,  for  the  solo  purpose,  as  avowed 
by  his  biographers,  of  plundering  the  Spaniards,  ascended 
as  high  as  the  43d  or  48th  parallel.  Fleurieu,  in  his 
introduction  to  Marchand,  asserts  that  Drake  sailed  as 
far  north  as  48°,  "  yet  Hakhiyt,  who  wrote  almost  at 
the  time  that  Drake  flourished,  informs  us,  that  he  got 
no  higher  than  43,  having  put  back  at  that  point,  from 
the  '  extreme  cold.'  "*  England  made  no  use  of  Drake's 
discovery,  though  her  ministers  were  at  one  time  inclined 
to  go  back  to  it  to  support  their  title ;  and  in  1845,  her 

*  Rush's  Residence  at  the  Court  of  London,  p.  608. 


-  — ":T;5at3t.rs4^  cW^fl^*^^^''^'^ 


■*W -!;<;>..■ 


216 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1845. 


embassador  at  Washington,  Mr.  Pakenham,  deliberately 
abandoned  all  the  discoveries  of  England  north  of  the 
42d  degree,  prior  to  those  of  Captain  Cook,  "  as  not  suf- 
ficiently authenticated."*  ^y,^^    ,    A- 

Captain  Cook  sailed  from  England  m  1776,  to  dis- 
cover, if  possible,  the  northwest  passage  supposed  to 
connect  the  Atlantic  and  Pacific  oceans.     The  Spanish 
discoveries  on  the  northwestern  coast  of  America  had 
already  been  made  public,  and  he  admits  in  his  journal 
that  he  had  heard  of  them.    In  1778,  he  saw  Cape  Flat- 
tery, but  he  did  not  know  it  was  the  southern  extremity 
of  the  Straits  of  Juan  de  Fuca,  and  ho  never  landed  any-   . 
^vhere  on  the  continent  south  of  Nootka  Sound.     After 
leaving  Nootka,  he  did  not  touch  the  coast  again  till  lie 
reached  57°  N.  latitude.     Sucl>,  And  so  unimportant, 
were  the  discoveries  of  Cook.     Yet  they  constituted  the 
corner-stone  of  the  English  till',  and  we  cannot  wonder 
that  a  most  frail  superstructure  vas  reared,  on  a  founda- 
tion so  unsubstantial.  r^     ,.  i,  x-^i 

Another  link,  still  more  defective,  in  the  English  title, 
was  the  discovery  of  the  Straits  of  Fuca  by  Captam 
Berkeley,  a  British  subject,  in  1787.    But  Juan  de  Fuca 
had  seen  them,  and  sailed  through  them,  nearly  two  hun- 
dred years  before ;  and  besides.  Captain  Berkeley  was  in 
the  employment  of  Austria,  and  sailed  under  her  colors. 
After  the  death  of  Captain  Cook,  his  vessels  sailed  for 
Canton,  where  the  furs  which  they  had  procured  on  the 
northwest  coast  of  America,  were  disposed  of  to  great  ad- 
vantage.    Attracted  by  the  hope  of  gain.  Lieutenant 

•  CommunioaUon  of  Mr.  Pakenham  to  Mr.  Buchanan,  July  29. 1»»5. 


^•'-^m 


I 


[1845. 

deliberately 
lorth  of  the 
"  as  not  suf- 

1776,  to  dis- 
Bupposed  to 
The  Spanish 
America  had 
ti  his  journal 
N  Capo  Flat- 
rn  extremity 
r  landed  any-   . 
ound.     After 
again  till  he 
unimportant, 
onstitutcd  the 
sannot  wonder 
,  on  a  founda- 

English  title, 
I  by  Captain 
Juan  de  Fuca 
arly  two  hun- 
jrkeley  was  in 
cr  her  colors, 
ssels  sailed  foi' 
•ocurcd  on  the 
of  to  groat  ad- 
n,  Lieutenant 

1,  July  29, 1*16. 


184o-6.j  KOOTKA    SOUND    CONVENTION. 


217 


-  ■i$!j,<g^.-'-''"f^af 


Mearcs,  a  British  ofBcer,  sailed  from  Macao,  with  a  few 
companions,  in  1788,  on  a  strictly  mercantile  expedition, 
and  under  the  Portuguese  flag.  He  attempted  to  find 
the  Rio  de  San  Roquc,  or  Columbia  River,  as  it  was  in 
;i  few  years  called  ;  but  after  consiilerable  examination. 
he  denied  the  existence  of  the  stream,  and  named  tlio 
)iorthoni  cape  of  the  bay  at  its  mouth.  Cape  Disappoint- 
ment. He  establisJicd  himself  and  his  companions  at 
Nootka  Sound,  and  commenced  trading  with  the  Indiana 
for  furs.  When  the  Viceroy  of  Mexico  heard  of  his  pro- 
ceoilings,  he  dispatched  MartiiK'z,  a  Spanish  officer,  with 
three  armed  vessels,  with  orders  to  drive  off  the  intrud- 
ers. This  Wiis  done  in  May,  17;^0.  Martinez  seized 
Min\rcs'  vessels  and  took  his  men  prisoners  j  and  he  also 
erected  a  fort  at  Nootka. 

Spain  t'acu  demanded  satisfaction  for  this  intrusion 
upon  her  possessions,  and  England  met  the  demand  by  a 
claim  for  redress  for  the  injury  to  Meares  and  his  prop- 
erty. After  some  display  of  warlike  preparations, 
through  the  mediation  of  France,  the  two  governments 
united  in  tlie  Convention  of  the  Escurial,  or  the  Nootka 
Sound  Convention,  which  was  coivcluded  on  the  28tli  of 
October,  1700.  By  this  convention  it  was  stipulated, 
that  the  buildinn;s  and  tracts  of  land  of  which  Meares  had 
been  dispossessed,  should  be  restored ;  that  the  respect- 
ive subjects  of  England  and  Spain  should  not  be  disturbed 
in  navigating  or  fishing  in  the  Pacific  or  in  the  South 
Seas,  or  in  landing  on  the  coast  of  those  seas  in  places 
not  already  occupied,  for  the  purpose  of  commerce  witli 
the  natives,  or  of  making  settlement  there  ;  and  tl.at  in 
all  places  on  the  coast  north  of  38",  wherever  the  subjects 


218 


r-n"..,F  I    'Vi"  'H'^" 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1845-6. 


of  either  nation  should  thereafter  make  settlements,  the 
snbiects  of  the  other  were  to  have  free  access. 
"'^  wed  in  connection  with  the  origin  of  the    .fficu Uy 
between  England  and  Spam,  which  was  settled  by  the 
N  otrConltion,  the  object  of  that  agreement  was  ob^ 
vious.     England  desired  to  protect  her  subjects  engaged 
Tthe  fur  trade,  and  the  settlements  referred  to  were  cer- 
tairSy  nothing  xiore  than  tradingposts  or  estabhshments. 
S^  made  no'claim  of  sovereignty  over  the  territory,  no 
M  Spain  on  the  other  hand  yield  any  rights  wbch  she 
had  acquired  by  her  prior  discoveries. 

Immediately  after  the  conclusm  of  the  Nootka  C^^^^^ 
vention.  Captain  Vancouver  was  dispatched  by  the  British 
rvernment!  to  receive  the  surrender  of  the  buildings  and 
tacts  of  land  of  which  Meares  and  his  companions  had 
been^  possessed.     A  hut  was  offered  to  hiui  wh.cU    e 
'Ised  1^  take,  and  he  then  left  Nootka  Sound  m  ^ 
possession  of  the  Spaniards,  who  remained  there     1 
1795,  when  they  voluntarily  abandoned  the  place    There 
is  no  evidence  that  any  lands  were  ever  restored  to 
Meares ;  Vancouver  makes  no  mention  of  it  m  his  jour- 
faTank  the  presumption  is  strong,  therefore  a^ain^ 
it      One  thing  is  certain,  however,-that  the  British 
n;ver  agam  reLupied  Nootka  Sound,  until  the  Oregon 

question  was  finally  settled.  .    '         ^    ..    Van 

Additional  instructions  were  given  toCaptam  Van- 
couver,  to  survey  the  northwest  coast  of  America,  under 
Xch  he  subsequently  performed  the  ridiculous  farce  of 
Iking  possession  of  it  in  the  name  of  his  govemmex^^ 
He  sailed  round  Vancouver's  Island,  to  which,  by  an 

•  Articles  1,  3,  8. 


[1845-6. 


1845-6.J 


CAPTAIN  VANcot;v-i:n. 


219 


3  settlements,  the 
access.* 

n  of  the  difficulty 
ras  settled  by  the 
agreement  was  ob- 
subjects  engaged 
ferred  to  were  cer- 
or  establishments, 
r  the  territory,  nor 
V  rights  which  she 

I  the  Nootka  Con- 
ched  by  the  British 
,f  the  buildings  and 
lis  companions  had 
id  to  liiui  wliicU  he 
ootka  Sound  in  the 
•emained  there   till 
d  the  place.    There 
e  ever  restored  to 
on  of  it  in  his  jour- 
r,  therefore,  against 
I— that  the  British 
d,  until  the  Oregon 

in  to  Captain  Van- 
it  of  America,  under 
e  ridiculous  farce  of 
3  of  his  government, 
nd,  to  which,  by  an 


understanding  with  tlie  Spanish  navigator,  the  joint  namo 
of  "  Quadra  and  Vancouver"  was  given.  Ho  took  pos- 
session, in  the  first  place,  of  the  coast  from  latitude  30" 
20'  N.  to  the  straits  of  Fuca,  and  afterward,  from  t\w 
straits  to  the  59th  parallel.  This  assumption  of  sover- 
eignty was  totally  inconsistent  with  tlie  Nootka  Sound 
Convention;  and  its  absurdity  Avas  so  manifest,  that 
when  Mexico  extended  her  settlements  into  tlio  territory 
on  the  south,  and  Russia  on  the  north,  England  uttered 
not  a  word  of  complaint. 

While  Vancouver  was  upon  the  coast,  he  encountered 
Captain  Robert  Gray,  an  American  trader,  on  the  29th 
of  April,  1792,  wlio  informed  him  that  he  (Gray)  had 
discovered  the  moutli  of  a  large  river,  to  which  he  had 
given  the  name  of  his  vessel,  the  Columbia,  but  was 
unable  to  enter  it.  Vancouver  disbelieved  the  account 
he  heard,  but  Gray  returned  to  the  river  and  succeeded 
in  entering  it.  Subsequent  to  this,  Vancouver  obtained 
copies  of  Gray's  charts,  at  Nootka  Sound,  by  the  aid  of 
which  he  found  the  mouth  of  the  Columbia,  and  sent 
Lieutenant  Broughton  to  explore  it,  who  went  up  to  the 
rapids,  about  one  hundred  miles,  in  his  cutter. 

There  is  one  important  fact  connected  with  the  dis- 
coveries on  the  northwest  coast  of  America,  which  shows 
the  weakness  of  the  claims  of  Grf  at  Britain,  and  the 
efforts  of  her  navigators  to  eke  out  their  title  by  infer- 
ence and  presumption.  Wherever  they  found  that  a 
Spanish  name  had  been  given  to  a  place,  they  were  ex- 
tremely careful  to  substitute  an  English  one,  in  accord- 
ance with  the  custom,  says  M.  de  Mofras,  "  of  British 
navigators,  who  never  fail  to  substitute  English  names  for 


220 


JAMES    KNOX   POLK. 


[1845. 


those  previously  given  by  discoverers  belonging  to  other 
nations."*  Thus  the  name  of  New  Albion  was  given 
to  California;  and  thus  Cook  changed  Cape  Blanco  to 
Capo  Oregoiy,  and  the  port  of  San  Lorenzo  to  King 
George's  Sound,-and  Vancouver,  Cape  Diligencias  to 
Capo  Oxford,  and  the  Canal  of  Rosario  to  the  Gulf  of 

Georgia.  .        , 

But  whatever  rights  England  might  have  acquired  in 
Oregon,  under  the  Nootka  Sound  Convention,  the   war 
between  her  and  Spain,  in  ITOG,  terminated  that  con- 
vention,  and  it  was  neVer  again  revived,  as  it  could  not 
have  been  without  an  express  agreement  entered  into  be- 
tween the  original  parties.     By  the  additional  articles  to 
the  treaty  of  Madrid,  concluded  in  August,  1814,  it  was 
indeed  provided,  that,  pending  the  negotiation  of  a  new 
treaty  of  commerce.  Groat  Britain  should  be  admitted  to 
trade  with  Spain  upon  the  same  conditions  as  those  which 
existed  previously  to  1796,-all  preexisting  treaties  of 
commerce  being  ratified  and  confirmed.     The   Nootka 
Convention,  however,  was  not  a  commercial  one  ;  it  was 
simply  a  reciprocal  agreement  not  to  interfere  in  trading 
with  the  Indians  for  furs  ;  and  it  was  not  therefore  re- 
vived.    Furthermore,  the  stipulation  in  the  additional 
articles  had  reference    only  to  the  direct   trade   with 
Spain  ;  for  that  government  never  conceded  the  privilege 
of  trading  with  her  dblonies,  except  in  a  single  instance, 
which  was  soon  abrogated  ;  and  this  position  is  conclu- 
sively established  by  the  fact,  that  in  this  very  treaty  of 
1814,  Great  Britain  procured  the  insertion  of  a  provision. 


m 


' Exp!or»Uou  du  Terrltoire  de  I'Orfegon,  des  CaliforniM,  etc.,  torn,  ii.,  p. 


[1845. 

1  belonging  to  other 
Albion  was  given 
d  Cape  Blanco  to 
Lorenzo  to  King 
'ape  Diligencias  to 
rio  to  the  Gulf  of 

it  have  acquired  in 
invention,  the   war 
rminated  that  con- 
vcd,  as  it  could  not 
3nt  entered  into  bc- 
dditional  articles  to 
ugust,  1814,  it  was 
■gotiation  of  a  new 
ould  be  admitted  to 
itions  as  those  which 
sexisting  treaties  of 
med.     The   Nootka 
aercial  one;  it  was 
interfere  in  trading 
18  not  therefore  re- 
in in  the  additional 
J  direct   trade   with 
mceded  the  privilege 
n  a  single  instance, 
3  position  is  conclu- 
a  this  very  treaty  of 
ertion  of  a  provision, 

DalifomiM,  etc.,  torn.  ii.|  p- 


1845-6. J 


THE    ENGLISH    CLAIM. 


221 


that  if  the  colonial  possessions  of  Spain  were  opened  to 
foreign  nations,  she  should  be  placed  ou  a  footuig  with 
tlie  most  favored  countries. 

So  weak  was  the  title  based  upon  the  Nootka  Conven- 
tion, that  the  British  Commissioners  in  1818  never  even 
referred  to  it,  or  claimed  any  rights  whatsoever  under 
it ;  yet,  in  1826,  the  negotiators,  Messrs.  Huskisson  and 
Addington,  rested  the  English  claim  mainly  upon  this 
Convention,  which  had  been  terminated  by  the  war  of 
1796,  and  never  revived. 

In  addition  to  the  discoveries' alleged  to  have    been 
made  by  sea,  England  based  Iier  title  partly  on  thoso 
made  overland.      In  1793,  Sir  Alexander  Mackenzie, 
being  then  in  the  employ  of  the  North-west  Company, 
discovered  Frazor's  river,  and  descended  it  for  two  Hun- 
dred and  fifty  miles  ;  he  then  struck  off  to  the  west,  aiul 
reached  the  Pacific  ocean  in  latitude  52"  20'.      But  it 
nmst  be  remembered,  that  the  Nootka  Sound  Convention 
was  at  this  time  in  full  force,  and  that  xMackenzie  was  in 
the  service  of  a  fur  company,  and  looking  for  favorable 
points   at  which  tx)  open  a  trade  with  the   Indians,  as 
English  subjects  wore  authorized  to  do  by  that  Conven- 
tion.     In  1806,  Frazer,  a  partner  of  the  North- west 
Company,  established  a  trading  post  on  a  small   lake, 
called  Frazer's  lake,  near    the  54th  parallel;  but    he 
never  approached  the  branches  of  the  Columbia  river, 
and    never  saw   it  till  after  Astoria   was   established. 
Frazer's  post  was  the  first  permanent  establishment  ever 
made  by  the  North-west  Company,  or  by  British  sub- 
jects, west  of  the  Rocky  Mountains.*     In  1811,  a  per- 
*  Harmon's  Journal  of  Voyages  and  Travel*. 


r" 


222 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1845-G. 


son  by  the  name  of  Thompson,  the  astronomer  of  the 
North  west  Company,  in  an  unsuccessful  attempt  to  .,.- 
ticipate  Mr.  Astor  in  establishing  a  post  at  the  mou  h  o 
the  Columbia,  aiscoverea  the  main  northern  branch  of  t 
Btream,  and  erected  some  huts  on  its  banks.     Mi.  Ast  n 
ubse,iiently  transferred  his  estabhshment  to  the  TSor 
.vest   Com'pany  ;    and  the  latter  was  afterward  unitul 
.vitli  the  Hudson's  Bay  Company.     Ta.s  last   company 
had  two  establishments  in   Oregon-one  at  Vancouver 
on  the.Cohin.l,la  riv.r,  and  the  otlu.-  at  Fort_  Nisqualb , 
o„  Pu^et's  Sound-when  the  boundary  question  w'as  do- 

'These  discoveries,  treaties,  and  setthMuonts,  constitu- 
ted the  basis  and  support  of  the  English  chum  t«  Oregon. 
Contrasted  with  the  Spanish  discover.es,  those  made   n 
the  navigators  of  Great  Britain  appear  paltry  and  mcon- 
leLle  in  the  extreme ;  and  in  re^rd  to  the  priority  of 
he  former,  there  cannot  be  a  doubt.     But  one  treaty 
ver  existed,  under  which  England  could  have  derive! 
any  title  ;  this  was  the  Nootka  Sound  Convention  jhi^'^ 
after  the  war  of  1796,  had  no  force  or  effect      The  on  y 
e   ablishments  or  settlements  made  by  British  subjects, 
:   e  so  Ide,  either  under  the  Nootka  Sound  Convention 
or  by  the  North-west  and  Hudson's  Bay  Companies.  The 
settlements  made  by  those  companies  were  "ejer  c-sid- 
ered  as  national  possessions.     On  the  contrary,  the  Hud- 
son's Bay  Company,  which  succeeded  to  the  right 
both,  was  not  authorized  by  the  act  pf  parliament  under 
.  id  its  charter  was  granted,*  nor  by  the  char  er  itse  , 
to  make  permanent  settlements  of  a  national  character 

♦land2  George  IV..  cap.  66. 


I"  1,  L-  ■■-Ulli.nili  iiliina 


fl845-G. 

astronomer  of  tlic 
sful  attempt  to  n\\- 
)8t  at  the  mouth  of 
thcrn  branch  of  that 
banks.  Mr.  Astor 
.ment  to  the  North- 
s  afterward  united 
riiis  last  conipany 
•one  at  Vancouver, 

at  Fort  Nisqually, 
ry  question  was  ch' 

L.ttlcmcnts,  constlta- 
lish  chiim  t*  Oregon, 
vies,  those  made  by 
"iir  paltry  and  incou- 

ardto  thc*pri^"*y  of 
bt.     But  one  treaty 

could  have  derived 
d  Convention,  whioli, 
I  or  effect.     The  only 

by  British  subjects, 
ka  Sound  Convention, 
Bay  Companies.  The 
les  were  never  consid- 
he  contrary,  the  Hud- 
;ded  to  the  rights  of 
,  pf  parliament  under 
r  by  the  charter  itself, 

a  national  character 


1845-G.J 


THK    AMERICAN    TITLE. 


228 


saP' 


66. 


to  grant  lands  or  to  hold  them  ;  but  only  to  enjoy  the 
right  of  trading  witli  the  Indians,  to  the  exclusion  of  other 
Britisli  subjects.*  If,  therefore,  Spain  faik'd  to  suppdrt 
liir  rights  ac(iuired  by  prior  discovery,  by  occupancy 
M  itliin  a  reasonable  time,  England,  on  tiie  other  hand,  did 
ijiit  secure  "  the  real  possession"  soon  after  discovery,  ne- 
('(•«-\vy  to  have  her  sovereignty  acknowledged  by  tlie  law 
of  nations.! 

'I'lie  Anurieiin  title  was  based  on  discovery,  treaty, 
setth'Uicut,  and  e.ja  j.i:i;i  v.  For  several  years  prinr  to 
17U-,  Iloberj;  Gray,  of  Boston,  the  captain  of  a  niereluuit 
vessel  sailing  under  the  American  flag,  was  employed  in 
trading  with  the  Indians  on  the  northwest  coast  of  Ameri- 
ca. He  landed  and  made  discoveries  and  explorations  at 
various  points.  In  June,  178'J,  he  explored  the  wholo 
eiistern  coast  of  Queen  Charlotte's  Island.  In  the  au- 
tunni  of  lliat  year,  Capt.  John  Kendrick,  also  an  Ameri- 
e;in,  sailed  through  the  Straits  of  Fuca.  Early  in  1791, 
(iiay  returned  to  the  nortliern  Pacific  in  the  ship  Colum- 
bia, and  in  the  course  of  the  ensuing  summer,  he  examin- 
ed many  inlets  and  passages  between  ijA^  and  50^  north 
latitude.  In  April,  1792,  he  satisfied  himself  of  the  ex- 
istence of  the  great  river  to  which  he  gave  the  name  of 
his  vessel.  After  his  interview  with  Vancouver,  he  dis- 
covered Bullfinch's  harbor,  on  the  7th  of  May,  1792 ; 
and  on  the  11th  instant,  he  again  saw  the  mighty  Colum- 
bia rolling  its  broad  flood  of  waters  into  the  Pacific. 

He  succeeded  in  entering  the  mouth  of  the  river,  and 
was  the  first  white  navigator  that  ever  crossed  the  bar. 

*  Iludsou'fl  Bay  Company  Charters — Iloiue  of  Commotu,  No.  647, 1842. 
t  Vattel,  Book  i..  cap.  18. 


ui.n  '\mll^m'^JmS!iJ.>!A'> 


22i 


JAMKS    KNOX    I'OLK. 


[1845-0. 


TliiH  ho  nccornplislif.l  in  mifety,  with  the  American  flnj; 
Hying  at  tlie  umst-heiul  of  liis  vessel.  1  le  tlien  sailea  u[) 
the  channel  a  diatanco  of  twenty-five  miles,  and  remain- 
ed ill  the  stream  nine  days  engaged  in  trading  with  the 
Indians.  Capt.  Gray,  it  is  true,  did  not  command  a  na- 
tional vessel,  but  he  carried  the  national  flag ;  and  if  his 
discoveries  amounted  to  nothing  more,  they  prevented 
other  nations  from  ac(iuiring  any  rights  by  subseiiueut 
discoveries.  But  an  American  merchantman,  sailing  un- 
der her  proper  flag,  is  regarded  as  a  pa-t  and  parcel  of 
our  soil ;  an  outrage  committed  on  her  in  whatsoever 
clime,  is  an  outrage  on  the  nation  ;  if  si./  violates  a  trea- 
ty or  convention  with  other  countries,  she  U  amenable  to 
our  laws ;  and  if  she  makes  discoveries,  why  should  they 
not  enure  to  the  benefit  of  the  country  that  affords  her 
protection,  and  to  which  she  owes  allegiance  T 

Upon  the  discoveries  made  by  Gray,  the  American 
government  founded  their  claim  to  Oregon  ;  and  they  in- 
sisted, more  particularly,  on  their  title  to  the  territory 
drained  by  the  Columbir.,  the  existence  of  which  he  was 
the  first  positively  to  establish.  This  territory  extends 
from  about  the  A2'  to  the  53^  N.  latitude.  The  right  to 
a  country  thus  drained  by  a  river,  on  the  discovery  of  its 
mouth,  had  been,  previously  claimed  by  England  and 
France,  on  various  occasions.* 

In  1803,  the  American  claim  was  strengthened  by  the 
purchase  of  Louisiana  from  France.  The  boundaries  of 
this  purchase,  so  far  as  Spain  was  concerned,  were  sorae- 

♦  Chartcrg  of  EliiabotU  to  Sir  Humphrey  Gilbert  in  1578,  and  to  Sir 
Walter  Raleigh  in  1584;  of  James  I.  to  Sir  Thomas  Gates,  in  160«  »"« 
1607  •  Georgia  Charter,  1732  ;  and  charter  of  Louis  XIV.  to  Croiat,  1712. 


[1845-0. 

tlic  Ainericivn  flag 
1  le  tlit'ii  Hiiiled  up 

iiiilea,  lUtd  roiiiaiii- 
in  trading  witli  the 
not  commiviul  a  riii- 
lal  flag ;  and  if  his 
n\  tlu'y  proventi'd 
;lit.H  by  8ub.se([uent 
aiitinan,  sailing  uii- 

part  and  parcel  of 
hor    in  wliatsoevor 

si.:'  violatos  a  troa- 
,  al.c  U  amonablo  to 
OS,  why  sliould  they 
try  that  affords  her 
I'giance  1 

Jray,  the  American 
rogon  ;  and  they  in- 
itio to  the  territory 
ICC  of  which  he  was 
lis.  territory  extends 
Itude.  The  right  to 
1  the  discovery  of  its 
I'd  by  England  and 

strengthened  by  the 

The  boundaries  of 

mcerned,  were  sorae- 

^lilbert  in  1578,  and  to  Sir 
'homas  Gates,  in  1606  and 
jovAb  XIV.  to  Cro»t,  1712. 


1845-6.J  OVERLAND    niHCOVERY,    ETC.  £25 

what  indefinite ;  but  by  tho  treaty  of  1708,  between  Eng- 
land and  France,  under  which  the  former  now  hol.ls  her 
Canadian  possessions,  it  was  agreed  that  for  tho  future, 
tiio  confines  between  the  British  and  French  dominions 
m  that  pare  of  the  worhl,  should  "  bo  fixed  irrevocabiv 
by  a  line  drawn  along  tho  middle  of  the  river  Mississippi, 
from  its  source  to  tho  river  Iberville,  and  from  thence  by 
a  line  drawn  along  the  middle  of  this  river,  and  the  lakes 
Maiircpas  and  Pontciiartrain,  to  the  sea."     Hy  this  trea- 
ty, Great  Britain  surrendered  all  claim   andtitle  to  tho 
territory  lying  between  tho  Mississippi  and  tho  Pacific, 
and  s(*th  of  its  source,  or  tho  4i)th  parallel  ;  and  when 
tho  L'.-iited  States  acquired  the  rights  of  Franco,  in  iHO.'J, 
they  had  a  complete  title  by  continuity,  if  not  otherwise,' 
as  against  any  country  except  Spain,  to  that  territory,— 
that  is,  as  against  England,  they  had  a  right  to  extend 
themselves  to  the  Pacific  ocean.     This  title  by  contirmi- 
ty  was  no  mere  assumption.     It  has  repeatedly  been  as- 
serted on  the  discovery  of  new  countries  ;  at  tho  time  of 
the  colonization  of  North  America,  it  was  insisted  that  a 
settlement  on  tho  Atlantic  coast  gave  a  claim  across  tho 
continent ;  and  tho  enlarged  charter  of  the  first  colony  of 
Virginia  granted  tho  territory  from  sea  to  sea. 

Overland  discoveries  were  also  made  by  the  Amerionn 
government.  In  1804-5,  Lewis  and  Clarke,  under  the 
orders  of  President  Jefferson,  explorcl  the  Columbia  river 
from  its  sources  to  its  mouth,— thus  strengthening  tho 
claim  derived  from  the  discovery  of  the  river  by  Gray, 
and  confirming  the  title  by  continuity.  Previous  to  1810,' 
Mr.  Henry,  an  agent  of  the  Missouri  Fur  Company,' 
established  a  trading  post  on  the  bank  of  Lewis  river. 


JAMK9    KNOX    l'Ot.K. 


[1845-0. 


,,U  >.as  comp..nea  to  ul,a,ulon  It,  un  account  of  the  ho«. 

tilitv  of  tlu,.  Iwllaus,  au.l  the  want  .1  l.rov.s.o,.s.     I.  to 

.1.  of  \liicl.     ISII,  Astoria  was  fou.ulc.l  nrnr  tho 

Y:twlu>buUt..n.Il.Wttl.ren.tluM>ro....u.M^^^^^ 
,ellU  .u-nt.     Otlu.r  tuvVu^A  l"-ts  tor  procunu;;  tar.  >>or« 

'  ,        »    ,.f  (l,o  North-west  Coinimuy,  Mr.  Asioi 

encroachments  of  Uio   .>oiui>ve  i      •  -j-. 

,,„,,rerre.l  it  to  tho  hUter,  by  sah^  on  th-  ^^^1.0^^^^ 
L    im.     This  transfer  emhrucea  i-nvato  pun^ 

l)..cen>her,l.sU'.Ovl>''U  the  ph^c-  snrren.lere.   to  .  U.  tu  i 
n      w  vr      "he  nritisli  stan^hu-a  was  thou  ho.ste.l ; 
■sloon  ol-\Nai.       *  oi-    »"  ,,ti,n.-'.n-    i.n 

,l.u.,-!;t:t  .1,;  i,».i  ....ly  g-v-  -p «-  p»-»"»"' ""'  '■"" 

rcsorvcd  tlio  .|iicsliNii  «(  WU'. 

,,„,..„  .,,.,,„.^v  —^^^^ 

:^,    mUL  to  a-P-,  and  .ithtta  consent,  of 


count  of  the  hos- 
irovisiouH.     Ill  ill" 
roiuitU'd  near  tlu) 
ol)  Ast'T,  of  N<'W 
10  protc'-tiou  of  till) 
ivociinn,  I'lira  wen» 
iks  of  the  river,  for 
<  inoutli.     Fonriiig 
iincri''  111  Fur  f'"""- 
•iil  lir.taiii,  mill  tins 
,)iiil(ii;iy,  Mr.  Astur 
n  tlio  l()th  o^f)cto- 
l   privivto  property 
•  jurisdiction.     'I'lio 
e  furt  till  the  1st  of 
outlcrcd  to  a  British 
1  wiis  thfu  hoisted  ; 
cy,  hy  iuithority,  on 
,  called  hy  the  Hrit- 
Uuited  Slates  under 
;lish  Hag  was  struck, 
unfurled  in  Us  ^tt'ad. 
vereij^nty  on  the  part 
.n  acknowledgment  of 
nvard  claimed  by  the 
ic  possession,  but  had 

loned  by  the  Amcri- 

and  other  settlements 

iiv,  by  American  citi- 

with  the  consent,  of 


1845-6. 


TRKATIKB    WITH    RIJHSIA. 


227 


their  ;.'overnnient ;  un.l  in  the  year  I  St'),  tliere  were  from 
one  trwuHand  to  lifteen  humh-ed  of  tliat  clasH  ..f  ii.Iiabit- 
auts  residing;  in  the  territory,  while  of  British  Huly.cts 
thei  •  were  less  tliaij  five  hundred. 

Previous  to  this  time,  tiie  American  claim  had  been 
cMupieted  by  the  ac.|uisitiou  of  all  tlie  ri;<ht.s  of  Spain 
above  the  42(1  paraUel,  which  w«'ro  conveyed  to  tlie 
United  States  by  the  Florida  treaty,  in  1S|!).  'rim.s 
liad  tiio  latter  inherited  all  the  claims  of  France  and 
Spain,  and  superaiMed  them  to  her  own.  ConHictin^'  as 
these  different  titles  may  appear,  in  some  respects,  a 
third  party,  like  Knglaml,  iiad  no  right  to  complain.  If 
tlie  American  title,  previous  to  1819,  was  not  good  against 
the  prior  discoveries  of  Spain  and  her  claim  by  contigu- 
ity, this  gave  England  no  right  to  dispute  the  titles  when 
united.* 

While  other  nations  were  laying  the  foundation  for 
future  claims  to  sovereignty  on  the  northwest  coast  of 
America,  llussian  navigators  and  traders  had  also  mado 
discoveries  and  settlements  in  northern  Oregon.  Colli- 
sions being  likely  to  occur  with  Russia,  an  effort  was 
in.ido  to  conclude  u  joint  convention  with  England  and 
the  iriiitod  States.  The  effort  failed,  and  each  govern- 
ment treated  separately.  In  1821,  the  United  States 
Btipiilated  with  Russia,  that  tho  latter  should  confine  her 

*  Kur  the  history  of  tho  Oregon  question  and  negotiations,  eeo  Orccnhow's 
Hist.iry  of  Oregon  and  California,  and  Memoir  on  the  Nortliwcat  Coast  of 
N'.vlh  Aniorieu;  Kaleoner  on  tho  Discovery  of  the  Mississippi  and  on  tlio 
Si.  .ihwcstcrn,  Oregon,  and  Northern  Boundary  of  tho  United  States  ; 
Imnus  History  of  tho  Oregon  Territory ;  Rush'n  Hoaidenco  at  tho  Court 
of  London;  Doo.  llO-lst  ression  20th  Congress ;  and  Documents  accom- 
panying the  President's  annual  message,  December,  1845. 


k 


- , >»*'v^-**^"'!^vH;*  .-;^.'.~^\j    j^  J 


228 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1845-6. 


sottlcnont.s  to  the  north  of  54°  40',  an.l  h.  18-25  Engla-'l 
and  Russia  ostablishol  the  same  bounaary  lino  bctwo.u 

tlioir  (lomhiions.  -n.     i      i 

Various  unsuccessful  efforts  vero  made  by  Enj.'lana 
and  tl.e  United  States,  subsequent  to  the  war  of  1812,  b, 
,1  .UTUU.u.  their  respective  rights  in  the  Oregon  territory. 
I„  1818,  tlie  American  goveriiment  proposed  to   divide 
tlu.  country  by  the  4lHh  parallel,  and  England  askcl  tae 
Columbia  river  a.    the  bom.dary  west  of  the  pcmt   at 
which  the  49th  parallel  intersected    that   stream.     As 
neither  party  was  inclined  to  yield,  a  convention  was  en- 
tered into  on  the  20th  of  October,  1818,  by  wluc.-.t  wa., 
agreed  that  the  whole  country  should   "  be  free  and  cT,.en 
for  the  term  of  ten  years  "   from  the  date  thereot,      to 
the  vessels,  citizens,  and  sul/l^'cts,  of  the  two  powers, 
^vithout  prejudice  to  tl.e  claim  of  either  of  the  contractmg 
parties  *     In  1824,  similar  propositions  for  a  settlement 
of  the  question  by  the  partition  of  the  territory  were 
made,  but  again  rejected.  _ 

In  18-^6,  Mr.  Gallatin,  the  American  mnustcr  at  the 
Court  of  St.  James,  proposed  a  modification  of  the  off.n' 
made  in  1818,  and  repeated  in  1824,-that  the  49th 
parallel  should  be  adopted  as  the  boundary,  subject  to 
deviations  according  to  the  accidents  of  the  country,  and 
if  that  line  crossed  any  navigable  tributaries  of  tae  Co- 
lumbia, then  the  navigation  of  such  tributaries,  and  ot 
the  main  river,  should  be  open  to  British  subjects. 
Messrs.  Huskisson  and  Addington,  tae  English  negotiat- 
ors, adhered  to  the  Columbia  as  the  general  boundary, 
tut  offered  to  the  United  States  a  detached  peninsula, 

*  Article  3rd,  • 


lul  in  18-25  Eu^izlaivl 
uiidary  lino  between 

}  made  by  Enj^land 
the  war  of  1812,  tu 
tiie  Oregon  territory, 
proposed  to   ilividt; 
I  England  asked  tlie 
vest  of  the  point   at 
1    that   stream.     As 
I  convention  ^Yas  cn- 
U8,  by  whicU-itwa3 
I   "be  free  and  open 
he  date  thereof,  "to 
of  the  two  powers," 
herofthe  contracting 
tions  for  a  settlement 
f  the  territory  Averc 

n-ican  minister  at  the 
edification  of  the  oiler 
824,— that  the  4'.)th 
boundary,  subject  to 
ts  of  the  country,  and 
tributaries  of  the  Co- 
h  tributaries,  and  of 
to  British  subjects. 
,  tac  English  negotlat- 
he  general  boundary, 
a  detached  peninsula, 


iSlo-G.J 


NKGOTIATIONS. 


229 


bounded  on  the  south  by  a  line  to  be  drawn  from  Hood's 
inlet,  or  canal,  to  Bulir,„ch'8  harbor,  on  the  east  by  the 
ndet,  oil  the  north  by  the  Straits  of  Fiica,  and  on  the 
west  by  the  Pacific  ocean,— thus  giving  up  the  soutliern 
coast  of  the  straits  and  several  of  tlie  best  liarbors  with- 
in them  ;  and  they  proposed  further,  that  a  strip  of  lan.l, 
along  the  northern  baidv  of  the  Columbia,  should  remain 
neutral.     Mr.  Gallutiii  refused  to  make  any  greater  con- 
cession than  he  had  oflbred,  and  tlie  negotiation  terminated 
for  the  time  in  the  convention  of  August  Gth,  1827,  by 
which  the  third  article   of  the  convention  of  1818   was 
indefinitely  extended,  and  continued  in  force,  subject  to 
the  proviso,  that  eitlicr  government  might  annul  and  ab- 
rogate  the  convention,  at  any  time   after   tlie  20th  of 
October,  liSi>S,  on  giving  dne  notice  of  twelve  months  to 
tlie  other  contracting  party.* 

During  tliese  negotiations,  and  up  to  the.  final  arrange- 
Jiicnt,  the  British  government,  through  her  ministers  and 
representatives,  never  claimed  the  e.vclusive  sovereignty, 
but  denied  that  it  belonged  to  the  United  States,  and  in- 
sisted only  on  her  right  of  joint  occupancy  and  settlement, 
predicating  it,  after  the  attempt  to  negotiate  in  1818.  on 
the  Nootka  Sound  Convention. 

At  the  time  of  the  negotiation  of  the  treaty  of  Wash- 
ington, in  18-12,  the  Oregon  question  was  not  considered 
or  brought  forward  by  Lord  Ashburton,  the  representa- 
tive of  Great  Britain,  lest  it  might  impede  the  settlement 
of  the  northeastern  boundary.f  Meanwhile  Oregon  was 
being  rapidly  populated  by  American  citizens,  many  of 

•  Don.  .19!)— 1st  sfss'Dii.  aith  Coiiftress. 

t  Dijp.Udi  uf  Ljra  Abji'douii  to  Air.  Fox,  October  18,  1842. 


aiW.'j..W»ggW.ai.-i-T 


230 


JAM».J   KNOX   POLK. 


[1845-6, 


them  the  friends  and  relatives  of  the  u.mb.ta.u.  ot  the 
western  stat'es.     In  that  section  of  the  U.uon  thc-voluu 
lead  and  frequent  comphiints  were  heard  at  the  neglect, 
of  tl>e  American  r.egotiator,  Mr.  Webster,  to  u.>st  ,,.<.. 
the  settlement  of  both  questions;  >vhile  at  the  nur.h  a 
.-a.  said,  that  he  had  been  outwitted  by  Lord  Ashbur  on, 
.nd  had  unnecessarily  sacrificed  a  portion  o   the  tcvr.tory 
of  Maine.     The  democratic  party  generally  advoeud 
.Ivin.  the  notice  to  Great  Britain  provided  fen-  by  tht 
Convention  of  1827.     In  the  28th  Cor.gress  eilort.  .ere 
,n.de  to  procure  the  passage  of  a  resolut.on  requn.ng  the 
notice  to  be  given,  but  they  failed  of  success. 

The  Baltimore  Convention,  as  has  been  seen,  resclvcl 
thot   the  American  title    to   the  whole  of   Oregon  ^yas 
>'  clear  and  unquestionable,"  and   that  its  reuccupat.on 
uas  a  measure  emi.ic.tly  worthy  of  support.     Mr.  Polk 
was  pledged  to  maintain  this  resolution  ;  but  only  so  lar 
.s  comported  with  the  general  sentin.ent  ot  the  nation, 
and  as  was  required  by  a  due  regard  for  the  prcservat.on 
of  the  national  honor  and  dignity.     His  mdividua    o^.n- 
ions  accorded  with  the  resolution.     In  a  speech  dejver- 
od    in    the   House   of  Representatives  on  the  :-.)th   ot 
December,   1828,  he  defended  the  Aniorlcan  elaun  to 
r,r   40';   and  in  his    letter    accepting   the    baltuno,:. 
domination,  in  his  inaugural  address,  and  in  his   n-st  an- 
.„al  message,  he  asserted,  in  unequivocal  terms  Ins  fn  . 
conviction,  that  the  title  to  Oregon  was  ^f^^^'f^';       ' 
bis  opinion,  Great  Britain  was  precluded,  by  the  t,.:.t>_ 
of  17G3,  from  asserting  a  claim  to  any  territory  west  ui 
the  Mississippi  and  south  of  the  49th  pavallol,,  if  any  she 
],u,l  previously  had;  and  by  the   Spanish  and  American 


-.,^.ii.-.»« 


-fe- 


[1845-6. 

ihabitanc^  of  tlio 
Union,  tlu'vofovc, 
nl  iit  the  neglect, 
tor,  to  insist  upon 
>  at  the  iiuvtU  it 
'  Lord  Ashburton, 
on  of  tlic  territ(M-y 
uerally  advocated 
)vided  for   by  the 
icrross  cflbrts   were 
utioii  requiring  the 
jccess. 

jeen  seen,  resolved 
lo  of   Oregon   was 
t  its  reoccupatioii 
iipport.     Mr.  Polk 
lu  ;  but  only  so  far 
lont  of  the   nation, 
for  the  preservatii'U 
lis  individual  opin- 
n  a  speech  deliver- 
ro3  ou  the  21) th   of 
Aniorican  claim  to 
ting    the    r>altin\ore 
,  and  in  his  iirstan- 
vocal  terms,  his  fin-.i 
fas  indisputable.     lu 
luded,  by  the  treaty 
my  territory  w>'st  "i 
li  parallel,  if  any  slie 
panish  and  American 


ISlo-G.j 


AMERICAN    ULTIMATUM. 


231 


I 


discoveries,  and  the  treaty  of  ISIO,  the  American  govern- 
nu'iit  had  ucipiired  a  perfect  and  absolute  right  of  sover- 
eignty over  t!io  wiiolo  territory  as  limited  on  the  north  by 
the  convention  witli  Russia. 

Mut  wlien  lie  assumed  the  administration  of  the  govern- 
nient,  lie  found  tiiat  his  predecessor,  in  deference  to  the 
expressions  of  the  popular  will,  had  opened  a  m'gotiatioii 
v.itii  the  IJritisli  govorinnent  for  -tile  adjustment  of  the 
(bogon  question.     This  negotiation  was  conunenccd  and 
eonduet'MJ,  as  appears  by  the  first- protocol,  dated  on  the 
2:4(1  of  August,  1844,  "  with  a  view  to  establish  a  per- 
inanent  boundary  between  the  two  countries,  westward  of 
the  Rocky  Mountains,  to  the  Pacific  ocean."*     The  ne- 
gotiation tlius  opened  by  Mr.  Callioun,  Secretary  of  State 
under  Mr.  Tyler,  was  continued  on  the  part  of  the  Ameri- 
e;in  government  by   Mr.  Buclninan.     Had  the  question 
])een  a  now  one,  Mr.  Polk  would  have  promptly  insisted 
ou  the  American  title  to  the  whole  of  Oregon,  but  as  those 
who  had  preceded  him  in  the  executive  chair  had  repeat- 
edly offered  to  compromise,  and  as  the  avowed  object  of 
this  nt'gotiation  was  to  fix  upon  a  boundary,  he  instruct- 
ed INfr.  13uchanau  .o  propose  that  the  Oregon  territory 
should  bo  divided  between  the  two  governments  by  the 
I'.ith  parallel,  t)ffering  at  the  same  time  to  make  free  to 
Great  IJritain  any  port  or  ports  on  Vancouver's  Island 
south  of  that  parallel  which  she  might  desire.     This  was 
the  ultimatum  of  the  American  government,  and  it  was 
not  hiten<led  to  vary  from  it,  except  that  slight  deviations 
required  by  the  geographical  character  of  the  country 
might  be  made. 

*  n.)cuniout3  accompanying  thp  President's  Annual  Message,  Doc,  ISlo. 


232 


JAMES    KNOX-   POLK. 


[1845-G. 


Mr.  Buchanan  comraunicatml  tlio  proposition  threcteil 
to  be  made  by  the  PrcBidcut,  to  Mr.  Pakcnhmu     tbo 
British  negotiator,  on  the  12th  of  July,  184o.     Without 
consulting  his  government,  the  latter  rejected  the  propo- 
sition on  the  29th  instant,  and  offered  to  submit  the  .lucs- 
tion  to  arbitration.  On  the  30th  of  August,  Mr.  Bucha- 
nan replied  to  Mr.  Pakcnham,  in  a  masterly  commum- 
cati«i,  conclusively  establishing  the  American  title  to  rtio 
territory,  declining  to  arbitrate  a  .luestion  so  clear,  .vi  h- 
dra^ving  the  offer  to  compromise,  and  insistmg  on  the 
claim  to  the  parallel  of  fA''  40'.*  ,  ,  •  i  *i\. 

Congress  now  assembled,  and  the  President  laid  tlio 
Oregon  correspondence  before  th.t  body  in  connection 
,vith  his  annual  message,  .  ith  the  vceommendation  that  a 
resolution  should  be  passed  giving  uutiee  of  the  termina- 
tion of  the  joint  occupation  of  the  territory,  at  the  expi- 
ration of  one  year,  in  accordance  with  the  convention  of 
1827.       Resolutions   were   accordingly  passed   in    both 
Houses  directing  the  notice  to  be  given,-m  the  House 
bv  a  vote  of  103  to  o4,  the  venerable  John  Qu.ncy  Adams 
heading  the  list  of  the  majority  ;  and  in  the  Senate,  by  a 
vote  of  38  to  14.      The  House  resolution  directed  the 
President  to  cause  the  notice  to  be  given,  bnt  that  of  tlio 
Senate  merely  authorized  him  to  give  the  notice,  at  his 
discretion.     A  disagreement  thus  existing,  comimttees  of 
conference  were  appointed,  and  the  resolution  of  the  Sen- 
ate, substantially,  was  finally  adopted.     The  President 
promptly  caused  the  notice  to  be  given.  , 
^  From  this  time  the  question  assumed  .  more  serious 
aspect,  and  it  appeared  highly  probable  that  a  collision 
.  Documents  accompanying  the  PrcMaent'B  Annual  Message.  Dec.  IKlo. 


Ml  III  J.,  fcj^jgjigiijaiag*' 


[1815-G. 

position  tiirccteil 
Piikciihaiu,  tho 
1845.  Without 
jccted  the  propo- 
submit  the  (^ucs- 
;ust,  Mr.  Bucha- 
astcrly  communi- 
lericiin  title  to  tho 
oil  so  cloiir,  witli- 
.  insisting  on  tho 

'resident  laid  tho 
jdy  in  coiniection 
nnuendation  that  a 
CO  of  the  tcvmina- 
•itory,  at  the  expi- 
tlie  convention  of 
y  passed   in    both 
;„, — in  the  House, 
ohn  Quincy  Adams 
in  the  Senate,  by  a 
lution  directed  tho 
^cn,  but  that  of  tho 
ire  the  notice,  at  his 
itinn',  committees  of 
isolution  of  the  Sen- 
id.     The  President 

Ml. 

iiiwl  V.  »nore  serious 
liihle  that  a  collision 
iinual  Message,  Dec,  1*15. 


■'■«i«ni.u«.i"m<ir)mjiiiiillii),i 


184.J-G.J         co\ci,udio\   ov  THE  tueaty. 


233 


■jvoulil  take  place  between  tiio  two  governments.      Tho 
]5rltish  ministry,  iiowever,  were  assured  by  the  tone  and 
temper  of  the  debates  in  Congress,  and  jty  advices  from 
private  individuals,  that  tho  American  people  would  pre- 
sent a  united  front,  if  war  should  come,  ui  defence  of  their 
claim  to  Oregon;  and  that,  if  they  desired  to  compromise 
tho  questinii,  further  propositions  must  come  from  their 
and  must  bo  made  without  delay.     Influenced  by  these 
considerations,  on  the  J8th  of  May,  1S4G,  Lord  Aberdeen, 
the  British  Secretary  for  Foreign  Affairs,  instructed  Mr. 
Pakenham  to  propose,  that  f'le  northern  boundary  line 
siiould  be  continued  westward  from  tho  Rocky  Mountains 
aiurg  the  -lOth  parallel  to  the  ciiunnel  separating  the  con- 
tinent from   Vancouver's  Island,  and  tlien   tiu-ough  the 
middle  of  the  chaimel,  and  of  the  straits  of  Fuca,  to  the 
J^icific  ocean  ;  with  the  proviso  that  the  navigation  of  the 
cluimiel  and  straits,  south  of  the  41»th  parallel,  should  re- 
main free  and  open  to  both  parties  ;  and  with  the  further 
stipulation,  that  the  main  northern  branch  of  the  Colum- 
bia, and  the  main  river  itself,  should  be  free  and  open  to 
tlie  Hudson's  Bay  Company,  and  to  all  British  subjects 
trading  with  them.     This  proposition  was  duly  submitted 
to  the  American  government  on  the  Gth  of  June  following. 
So  thoroughly  convinced  was  Mr.  Polk,  that  the  Amer- 
ican title  to  the  whole  of  Oregon  was  "  clear  and  unques- 
tionable," that  if  he  alone  had  been  responsible,  ho  would 
have  instantly  declined  to  surrender  any  portion  of  the 
territory.     But  by  former  negotiations  the  government 
appeared  to  be  committed  to  an  equitable  division,  and 
a  decided  majority  of  Congress  were  avowedly  favor- 
able to  a  compromise.     There  ^yas,  too,  a  new  considera- 


-,-..1^1.1  riii-''i>j,n'iiJn'itaiJs>i-«g<'* 


■  '-!a.U,Mja,'!Aij^.ijig!i' 


JAMES    KNOX   VOLK. 


[1815-6. 


034. 

podiocy,  motive*  « .''*  «'«JJX    ,h„  ..Mon  of  ,..- 

tious  and  "'i'''"'---" S  valueles.,  except  for  tl,e 
Vancouver  vrcro  ""P""'""-'^'"   „f  r„c.,  MA  vera 

the  only  safe  and  easily  ace  .^^  ^^^.^^^ 

ritory.     Those  on  the  soutbe^  ^^^^  ,,,  gritisU 

indeed,  to  belong  to  the  U-  ^"^^  Mexico,  and  as 
proposition  ,  but  ^ar  ^^  ^^^^.^^^  ^ 

that  country  was  large  ^  ^  ^^^^^  j^^,^ 

and  .as  confessedly  ^^^^l^^Zl  foreseen  i^..ii^^o 
sagacious  statesman,  could  not  but  h^  ^  ^^^i^fac- 

co^test  would  terminate  in  the  ^J^^J^^;    „,,,  ,f  tho 
tion  for  the  American  claims  [^"^  ^^^^^^  ,,,  ,i,eh 

.-ar,  of  a  large  portion  of  ^^H^^lX^^i  har- 
^vas  embraced  the  bay  of  San  Francisco, 
bor  on  the  Pacific  coast.  ^^^^^^  ^f 

Acting  ^^^^^^\-:'^Z7Z  treaty,  Mr.  Folk 
Washington  with  respect  to  j  ^^^^^^^ 

submitted  the  P-P-J-J^^^^^^         advisers  in  the 
as  being  composed  of  his  cons^  ^^  ^^^^^^^^ 

conclusion  ^^^^ta^  wf  J  Xupimo^ -s  in  favor 
at  the  same  ^^^^f^^ZcUr.  to  the  whole  of  Ore- 
""'  "'^'S^^htsen  te  did  not  advise  the  acceptance 
gon ;  and  '^^l!^'^'^'^  constitutional  majority  required 

of  the  P^oP««^*^«"' V.  'T,  he  should  consider  it  hm 
for  the  ratification  of  treaties,  he  snou 

duty  to  reject  the  offer.*  ^^^^  ^^^^^^^ 

The  Senate  by  a  vote  of  41  to  14,  a 

.  special  Mo.ago  and  Accompanying  Docu.cnU,  Juno  10.  X^. 


1 


"  wwt  h  1 1  iViriiift'.M^  i£.JiM^ 


[1815-^. 

f  policy  and  ex- 
id  which  always 
he  action  of  na- 
md  the  ishind  of 
J,  except  for  the 
ruca,  which  were 
in  the  whole  tov- 
■  the  straits  were, 
under  the  British 
h  Mexico,  and  as 
American  citizens, 
)lk,  aa  a  wise  and 
c  foreseen  that  the 
tion,  as  a  satisfac- 
e  expenses  of  tho 
territory,  in  which 
SCO,  the  finest  har- 

,0  the  example  of 
y  treaty,  Mr.  Polk 
•itain  to  the  Senate, 
)nal  advisers  in  tho 
,ower8.     He  stated, 
opinion  was  in  favor 
0  the  whole  of  Ore- 
kdvise  the  acceptance 
lal  majority  required 
lould  consider  it  his 

:,  advised  the  accept- 

;umcnU,JaiiolO,lM6. 


18-lo-G.J  CONCLUSION    OK    TIIK    TRKA-A'. 


235 


ancc  of  the  terniH  proposal  liy  the  British  govoriimciit, 
on  the  12th  of  Juiie,  l>S4l!,  with  the'  uiKU'rstandinjj;,  jih 
olliciiilly  stated  by  Mr.  15ucli:uiiui  to  Mr.  Piikciiiraiu, 
prior  to  the  conclusion  of  tlic  tivatv,  tliut  tlio  rij^lit  of  llio 
Hudson's  Bay  Conipanv  to  navigate  tlit-  Colunibiii  would 
expire  with  tlioh-  license  to  trailc  on  die  ncu-tiiwest  eoa.-;t 
of  America,  on  the  :i!)tli  of  May,  IsV.i.*  Tlu!  treaty 
prepared  in  accordanee  willi  tlie  pr()[iosition  of  Mr.  Pak- 
enliatn,  was  then  si'^ued  Ity  iiim  and  Mr.  Buchanan  on 
the  loth  day  of  Juiu  ,  and  duly  ratified. 

Thus,  by  tho  firm  deternrMiatiou  of  Mr.  Polk,  was 
this  vexed  question,  wliich  at  on(^  time  tlireatened  to  in- 
terrupt the  friendly  relations  subsisting  between  two 
nations  united  by  tho  synipathies  of  a  conunon  Origin  and 
a  conunon  tongue,  forever  settled  in  a  spirit  of  amity  and 
concord  ;  each  party  magnanimously  surrendering  a  part 
of  its  prctensionR,-^-the  United  States  yielding  the  south- 
ern cape  of  Vancouver,  and  the  territory  above  tho  49th 
parallel,  which  she  had  repeatedly  proposed  to  adopt  as  ■ 
the  boundary,  and  Great  Britain  giving  up  her  claim  to 
the  jurisdiction  and  unoccupied  territory  between  tho 
49th  parallel  and  the  Columbia  river. 

♦  Dispatch  of  Mr.  Buchanan  to  Mr.  MoLane,  Juno  13, 1846. 


1 


CHAPTER  IX. 

effort?  to  op.:ii  not;"! liitii'i"-!  110  Anmaiioo     x^mv  , 

Thf  "  joint  ,TS(.lutio!i  provi.riug  for  the  annexation  of 
Tcvas  to  tho  Uuit.Ml  States,"  o.nbraccd  two  propositions,- 
thc  one  proviain-  fur  the  inu.ieaiate  annexation,  and  tlK> 
other,  of  a.,  alternative  character,  contemplating  a  new 
negotiation  with  the  republic  of  Texas,  if  the  Presiaent 
deemed  it  the  most  advisable. 

RESOLUTION    OK    ANNEXATION. 

"  Resolved  hy  the  Senate  and  House  of  Representatives  of 
the  United  States  of  Amerim  in  Congress  assemhled,  ^\mt 
Congress  doth  consent  that  the  territory  properly  mcluded 
.^itl'n.  and  rightfully  belonging  to.  the  R«P"f  ^  "^  --' 
may  be  erected  into  a  new  SUite,  to  be  called  the  State  of 
Texas  with  a  republican  form  of  government,  to  be  adopted 
bv  the  people  of  said  Repubhc,  by  deputies  in  convention  as- 
sLbled.  with  the  consent  of  the  existing  S;;-™;;  - 
order  that  the  same  niay  be  admitted  as  one  of  the  States  of 

this  Union.  ,     „  .  ^e 

"  2  And  be  it  further  resolved,  That  the  foregoing  consent  of 
Congress  is  given  upon  the  following  conditions,  and  with  the 
flwin.  guaranties,  to  wit:  First,  said  State  to  be  formed 
Bubject  to  the  adjustment  by  this  government  of  all  questions 


^iiiiAi*7tipi  II , 


ho  Question  of  Boun- 
it  to  Xogotiivte — lio- 
l  Taylor  to  the  liio 
r  the  war— Ucpcuti'd 
[y  of  I'oaco. 

he  annexation  of 
0  propositions, — 
lexation,  and  tlio 
?mplating  a  new 
if  the  President 


ION. 

Representatives  of 
ss  assembled,  That 

properly  included 
lepublic  of  Texas, 
called  the  State  of 
lent,  to  be  adopted 
?s  in  convention  as- 
ng  government,  in 
)ne  of  the  States  of 

foregoing  consent  of 
litions,  and  with  the 
State  to  be  formed 
nent  of  all  questions 


184')-8.J  RKSOLUTION    OF    AWKXATION. 


237 


of  boundary  that  may  arise  with  otlier  g()V("nnn(>nfs ;  and  the 
constitution  thereof,  witii  the  proper  evidence  of  its  adoptMJu 
by  tiic  people  of  said  Repuhlio  of  Texas,  shall  he  transmitted 
to  the  President  of  tlie  United  States,  to  be  laid  before  Con- 
gress for  its  final  action,  on  or  before  the  first  day  of  January, 
one  tliousand   v'u^ht  hundred   and  forty-six.      Second,  said 
State,  when   admitted  into  the  Union,  after  ceding  to  the 
United  States  all  public  edifices,  fortifications,  hai'iacks,  ports 
and  harbors,  navy  and  navy  yards,  docks,  magazines,  arms, 
armaments,  and  ail  other  pro[)erty  and  means  pertaining  to 
tiie  public  defence,  belonging  to  said  iiepublic  of  Texas,  sliall 
retain   all   the  public  funds,  debts,  taxes,  and  dues  of  every 
kind,  which  may  belong  to,  or  be  due  and  owing  said  ifopub- 
lic  ;  and  shall  also  retain  all  tlu;  vacant  and  unajipropriated 
lands  lying  within  ils  limits,  to  be  applied  to  the  pavment  of 
the  debts  and  liabilities  of  said  Repulilic  of  Texas  ;  and  the 
residue  of  said  lands,  after  discharging  said  debts  and  liabili- 
ties, to  be  disposed  of  as  said  State  may  direct ;   but   in   no 
event  are  said  debts  and  liabilities  to  become  a  charge  upon 
the  Government  of  the  United  States.     Third,  lunv  States  of 
convenient  size,  not  exceeding  four  in  nundjer,  in  addition  to 
said   State  of  Texas,  and  having  sufhcient  population,  mav 
hereafter,  by  the  consent  of  said  State,  be  formed  out  of  the 
territory  thereof,  which  ;  iiali   be  entitled  to  admission  under 
the  provisions  of  the  Federal  Constitution.     And  such  States 
as  may  be  formed  out  of  that  portion  of  said  territory  lyinf 
south  of  thirty-six  degrees  thirty  minutes  north  latitude,  coni^ 
monly  known  as  the  Missouri  compromise  line,  shall  be  .ad- 
mitted into  the  Union  with  or  without  slavery,  as  the  peo[)le 
of  each  State  a.sking  admission  may  desire.     And  in  such 
State  or  States  as  shall  be  formed  out  of  said  territory  north 
of  said  Missouri  compromi.se  line,  slavery  or  involuntary  ser- 
vitude (except  for  crime)  shall  be  prohibited. 

"  3.  And  be  it  further  resolved.  That  if  the  President  of 
the  United  States  shall,  in  Ids  judgment  and  discretion,  deem 


.  J|.,'.a-'  .41^,."m/  »l'4iMI  JJMiW." 


238 


JAMES   KNOX   rol.K. 


[184;V8. 


it  ,nost  advi.>hl.-,  instoad  of  proccdu.,'  to  subm...   ho  foe,.  - 

:....suluti..n  t..  .1...  lU,.ublic  of  'IVxus  as  an  --•';-;  ^- 

pit  of  Uk.  rniU'd   States   for  admission,  t"  nogoUutc   «aU 

r;:;rt;>';;;;wasuaoob.fo™..doutofY 

,„..,:,  Republic  of  Texas,  .i.b  suitable  exfnt  and  b-.u  d- 
^  •  ,nd  \vith  isso  representatives  in  Vow^vv.h,  unt  1  tbo 
::t;.pr;;li,tof^p.sentatio„..ball^.^tU.^ 

tl,e  Union,  by  virtue  of  this  act.  on  an  equal  footm,^'  Mtb  tl.o 

.,-,      SfUes    as   soon  as    the    terms  aad   eo.ubt.ons   ot 

:riS:^on:a;ul  the  cession  of  the  remaining  Texan  ter 

vUory  to  the  United  States,  shall  be  agreed  upon  by  the  gos 

.    ,  f  'l\.vi-  and  the  United  States. 
...nments  of  J c  n.l^  and  ^^^^^^^,^.^^^ 

"    \iHlhoU  fin-lhcr  tiKirtnl,    that   in(  sum  .  ,    ,, 

.K    ^     1  dollars  be  and  the  same  is.  hereby  appropriated  (o 

?';    riiJ  c    -n^  s  of  missions  and  n..gotiations.  to  agree 

''■'?tlu  ^nns        aid  admission  and  cession,  either  by  tmvty 

;:!'l     s  «    1  to  the  Senate,  or  by  articles  to  be  submitted 

;:  Lt:ilouses  of  Congress.as  the  Prestdent  .ay  dnect. 

President  Tyler  elected  to  submit  the  first  and  secona 

.ec^  ons  of  th/ Resolution  of  Annexation  to  the  authon- 

0    0    Texas,  .hicU  election  .vas  approved  by  las  .u  - 

Zt  and  tl  0  annexation  ^vas  completed  m  conformity 

Ce  ;      Thcadministrationof  Mr.  Polk,  therefore  sue - 

led  to  all  the  liabilities  and  advantages  incurred  oi 

B       ed  by  the  aceomplisbment  of  this  great  measure. 

Th  central  authorities  of  IVfcxico,  tbouglv  posses.nig 
J^  complain,  by  reason  of  the  i^l^^_ 
ancc  of  Texas  ^hen  the  federal  league  of  lfe2i  ^vas  vio 
t  V  ruptured,  and  of  their  inaction  for  so  long  a  pen  , 
^r  ;ot  'remain  silent  .hile  the  -go.aU^^^^r^^  ;  ". 
nexation  of  Texas  were  in  progress,  or  the  act  itsclt 


55 11(^1  .«fijiU[lp,Wi),''H!-V;3J(WK-  '-^Hf' 


[t84r)-8. 


lvS4y-8.J        nr.soLUTioN  of  annexatiox. 


2^0 


subini;  the  rorc-jo- 
iiii  (ivcilint'  <in  tlio 
ti)  m'i'oliiili;   \Yilli 

formed  out  of  tlto" 
extent  and  bound- 
'on^'rcss,  untd  tlio 
11  boiidmitted  into 
iial  footini;  wilb  tlu> 
and  conditions  of 
•maininc,'  Texan  ter- 
il  upon  by  tbe  f,'ov- 

sum  of  ono  hundred 
rcby  nppropnated  to 
[■rrotiations,  to  aj^iree 
;sion,  either  by  treat y 
icles  to  be  submitted 
resident  may  direct." 

the  first  and  second 
ition  to  tho  authovi- 
pprovcd  by  liis  s^u^i- 
pletcd  in  conformity 
Polk,  therftforc,  suc- 
mtages  incurred  or 
lis  great  measure. 
0,  though  possessing 
the  justifiable  resist- 
^ue  of  1824  was  vio- 
i  for  so  long  a  period, 
rotiations  for  the  an- 
'or  the  act  itself  be- 


ing consummated.     Oa  tlio  2:](l  day  of  Aiigu.st,  lsl3, 
Mr.  do  Uocaiiegra,  tlio  Aloxioan  Minister  of  furei^ni  re- 
lation.s,  addressed  a  note  to  Mr.  Tliompson,  tlie  Anierieaii 
.  -Minister  in  Mexico,  calling  his  attention  ollicially  to  tlio 
agitation  of  the  (juestion  ia  tlic  United  States,  and  an- 
nouncing that  tho  Mexican  govermneat  would  consider 
iMjiuvaleat  to  a  declaration  of  war  against  the   Mexican 
llepiihlic,  tho  passage  of  an  act  for  the  incorporation  of 
Texas  with  the  territory  of  tho   United  States  ;  tiie  cer- 
tainty of  the  fact  being  sullicient  for  tiie  immediate  proc- 
lamation of  war;  leaving  to   tho  civilized  world   to  de- 
termine with  regard  to  the  justice  of  the  cause  of  tlio 
Mexican  nation,  in  a  struggle  whicli  it  [  hadj   been  so  far 
from  provoking.     The   toni;  of  a  portion  of  the   note  of 
Mr.  (le  Bocaaegra  was  so  harsh  and  dictatorial,  that  it 
elicited  a  sharp  reproof  from  Mr.  Thompson.     A  second 
note  was  written  by  tlic  fornjer,  in  Sejitember,  whicili  was 
more  subdued  in  its  cliaracter,  and  assured  tlie  American 
Envoy  that  Mexicp  did  not  threaten,  still  less  provoke  or 
excite  ;  but  that  she  wouhl  "  regard  tlie  annexation  of 
Texas  to  the  United  States  as  a  hostile  act."*  ' 

In  November  of  the  same  year,  a  similar  correspond- 
ence took  place,  at  Washington,  between  General  Al- 
monte, the  Mexican  Minister,  and  Mr.  Upshur,  tlie 
American  Secretary  of  State;  tho  former  protesting,  ia 
na  ollicial  note  written  oa  tlie  ;-3d  instant,  in  the  name  of 
his  government,  against  the  annexation,  and  declaring 
that  oa  saactioa  being  given  by  the  American  Executive 
to  the  incorporati(jn  of  Texas  into  the  United  States,  he 

*  ir.,u.soori!oi,resoiiUilivw,  Kxec.  Duo.,  2-lst  So33ion2Sth  Congroaa,  p. 
20",  ct  acq. 


T35BB»«W»aB«;?j 


240 


JAMKS   KNOX   POLK. 


bIk.uM  cous'kUt  his  mission  oiidod,  imtl  tliat  tlie  Mexican 
jfi.vcnimciit  WHS  itsoIv.mI  to  dfclan!  war  so  soon  as  it  ro- 
c.ivi-a  ii.rormatioii  of  such  an  net.*     Two  <k>cm-»  wero 
alxmt   tiio  siuno  time  issiu-d   hy  tlu'   Mexican  ff>von\- 
,,„.„t,— (.M.«    of    tlicni    oxeliulin^'    ioiTi;?ii('i-s    from    tlio 
retail  tnuU-  in  Mexico,  im.l  tlie  otiier  closing'  the  custom-^ 
housos   in   tl.e   norti.ern  J.'piutmcnts.f     Tlic  o])ject  of 
these  (leerees  — if  not  iivowe.l,  at  least  not  coiioeahMl  — 
wastoeomi.el  the  Ameriean  shopmen  to  leave  the  capital, 
and  to  cut  olVthe  viiluiihle  western  trmle  with  New  Mcx- 
co  and  Ciiihuiihua.     Mr.  Thompson  remonstrated  against 
these  decrees,  hut  the  Mexican  authorities  positively  re- 
fused to  repeal  them. 

Tlie  treaty  of  aiinexatifm  conelnd.d  l.y   Mr.  Ca'   "un 
uas  signed  on  the  IJth  .l..y  of  April,  lH.14.     Imn.eu.atc- 
ly  upon  the  conclusion  of  tlie   treaty.    Mr.   Green,   the 
Anu'riean  ('/inr/r,  d\'l/>iirrs  \n  Me.M^  ',l)y  the  din>ction 
of  the  Secretary   of  siate,  assured  the  Mexican  -.'ovc-rn- 
ment,  that  it  was  the  desire  of  the  President  of  the  United 
States  to  settle  all  (piestions  between  the  two  countries, 
that  nu;rht  grow  out  of  the  treaty,  "  or  any  other  cause, 
on  the  most  liberal  and  satisfactory  terms,  includin;^'  that 
of  boundary  ;"  and  tliat  tlie  boundary  of  Texas  had  been 
purposely  "left  without  specllieation  in  tl-.-  treaty,  so  that 
it  mi-Vt'be  "  an  open  (luestion,  to  be  l'..irly  and  fully  disf- 
cussed  and  satled,  aeeordinn;  to  the  ri-hts  of  eaeli,  and 
the  mutual  interest  and  security  of  thr  two  coimtries.f 


*  Seiiato  Pof.  311,  l.-t  ^••t■fsIl.n.  . 

•  t  Ihnx^o  of  Iteprcsoulntivos,  lOxoo.  T),.c.  2    -  Ut    session  28th  Congrea, 

p.  31,  et  seq. 


■■  .Scniitu  L'"i'.  :m-lst.  scssimi  23lli  Congr.'      p.  r);?. 


,    I  ^....jm.i.U.  .<■■<■,» kl!WAi'."i-t.'.t-'-"».AWM*l!4!.U.'J-'.' 


1045-8. 


tliiit  the  Mexican 
r  SI)  soon  lis  it  rc- 
Two  (l*crei'H  were 
Mfviciin  j,'ovorn- 
ri.fiicrs  from  tlio 
losinj:;  tlio  custom- 
r  Tlio  ohjcirt  of" 
t  not  I'oiiPcaU'tl  — 
i»  Ir.ivc  the  Oiipi till, 
II"  with  Now  Mox- 
lUiMstriitod  n^^iiiiist 
itios  poHitivoly  ro- 

l,y  Mr.  Ciil  ;(iun 
S-t4.     Imiiioaiato- 

Mr.   Groon,   the 

.,l)y  tho  (lin>ctioii 
i>  Moxioiiii  jrovoni- 
jdciit  of  tho  IJiiitod 

the  two  countries, 
)!■  liny  other  cause, 
niis,  includin;^  that 
rofTcxaH  had  been 

thf  ti-oiity,  so  that 
l'.iirly  anil  fully  di:<- 
ri-,'hts  of  oaoli.and 
bo  two  countries. t 


it    session  28th  Congrea, 


.  f):?. 


»JtkJ«!H'«Wti-W-'>»-'UI»HWttj*l-tl-'.'-'^"' 


lH4r>-8.J 


''OL'RSE   OF   MEXICO. 


m 


Mr.  Thompson  having  roturne.l  home,  a  new  Envoy 
was  suhHoquontly  Hont  to  Mexico,  with  full  and  ado.jmito 
powers  to  ent..r  upon  tho  n.-otiation.     Ho,  also,  was  in- 
stniotod   by  Mr,  Calhoun,  on    tho  loth  of  September, 
is  II,  "to  renew  the  (ieclarntion  made  to  the    Me.xio-in 
Seeretary  by  our  charge  d'njfains,  in  announoin-.  tho 
eo.iolusum  of  tho  treaty,  that  the  measure  was  adopted  in 
no  spirit  of  hostility  to  Mexico,  a.id  that,  if  annexation 
should  be  consummated,  the  United  States   [wouUlJ  bo 
proimredto  adjust  all  .luestions  growing  out  of  it,  includ- 
ing that  of  boundary,  on  tho  most  liberal  terms."* 

When  it  became  known  iirMexico  that  tho  treaty  had 
b<vn  signod,  Mr.  .le  Jiocanegra  addivs.ud  a  circular  let- 
tor  to  the  foreign  ministers  rosi.l.at  in  JNf.-xico,  dated  tho 
yi St  of  May,  1H44,  inwhie!;  he  prononneo.l  the  treaty  of 
"tnioxation,  absolutoly,  "a  doch.ration  of  war  between 
tlio  two  natin,,,."     In  reply  to  the  assurances  of  Mr. 
Green,  tl.e  Mexican  minister  repeated  his  declaration  that 
Mexico  would  consider  the  ratification  of  the  treaty  as  a 
positive  act   of  war.f     The  authorities  of  Mexico  were 
doubtless  emboldened  to  assume  this  warlike  ami  offensive 
tone,  by  the  powerful  opposition  oft'ered  to  the  annexation 
nt   Texas  in  tho  United  States,  and  they  claimed  groat 
i..orit  among  their  people  for  their  bold  resistance  of  what 
they  termed  the  aggressions  of  tho  American  govern- 
niont. 

Santa  Anna,  the  President  of  Mexico,  took  tho  same 
ground  with  Mr.  de  liocanegra,  in  a  public  announce- 

Mlo.,«,of  HerresctativM,  E.co.  Do«.-2a  «c«ion  28th  Congre.,s-p. 
21,  et  (■0(1.  "  *^ 

t  Ihiil.,  p.  52,  ft  scq. 
11 


ffnaiS-'-to  J^-ijc>.»4Ji^J  t'i.J.^  Wfraq 


242 


JAMES   KNOX    POLK. 


[1845-8. 


n.ent  nude  on  thorn  or  Jan.,  1S44,  and  doclavodit^ 

This   announcoinont  Nvas  lolloAved  by   a   u 
:L,a.usa.d..:u.W^^^^ 

,,  ou  the  .av,  -  ^^;;;  J^^^^UWoU  .ere  ordev- 

nm-tor  of  las  goverumen      u  tl-^^^  .^,^.^^^  ,, 

'"  1^^  ;  UuU  d  8t  tos  was  favorably  disposed  toward 
Mcxico,  and  .,u.de.>n.^  c^tr«^^  .  ^^^^  ^^^^^  ^^^^^ 

cubic  and  fncudly  spu.t,  tov       c  ^^  ^^^^ 

settlevneut  of  all  questions  lu  ^^lu  ucc  Ik  ^_ 

countries,  including  the  bouudaY  o    U  a  •  I  ^^_ 

ciac  overtures  were  not  -gav>kd     nd  o^.  U.  ^^J 
Anvil  the  American  Minister  m  Mexico  ^^ as  lau. 

fi  -  '£i  Ctuat  the  annexation  in  nowise  destroyed 
1,..,  ^^;^;-";-  ._^^^^^  ^1,,^,  ,1.,  ,vouldn.aintain  them 

the  right^  ot  ^1^'\^'  of  the  Mexican  Corgrcss 

bv  force  of  arms.      i\\o(UciLi.s  f,,,.  nllin"- 

.4e  affixed  to  this  proclamation,  providing  fo.  calUn„ 


J 


y  >;.;!.  M.JkJ  I.  ilimi.WIW-a-'.t' 


■  f^'vary^* 


^•wvfvm^^irmtmii^mr  »■  i 


[1845-8. 

and  tloclavcd  it  to 
rc-coiujuor  Texas. 
a   reciuisitiuu  tuv 
of  dollars,  to  oav- 
a,  would  bo  one  of 
d  WoU  were  order- 
Imt  accomplislit'd 
When  the  annexa- 
Almontc  protested 
as  the  accredited 
,h  of  March,  18-15, 
e  Avere  delivered  to 
lini  that  the  govern- 
bly  disiposed  toward 
;  with  it  in  an  ami- 
Ijustnient  and  final 
ice  between  the  two 
■  Texas.  .  These  pa- 
il on  the  2d  day  of 
xicowaa  refused  all 
upon  the  ground,  as 
'ureigu  relations,  that 
:,t  couth. uc  diplomatic 
upon  the  presumption^ 
ible  with  the  law  ■ '  of 
id  successor  of  Sai»ta 
on  the  4th  of   June, 
II  in  nowise  destroyed 
would  maintain  them 
the  Mexican  Cov  gress 
,  providing  for  callmg 


1845-8.J 


MERICAN    CLAIMS. 


248 


;,■».(  mWijiW'' 


out  all  the  arme  •  ^.-ces  of  the  nation  ;  and  on  the  12th 
day  of  July  orders  were  given  to  the  army  of  the  north, 
then  cantoned  at  San  Luis  Potosi,  to  prepare  to  take  the 
field.  Similar  orders  were  issued  by  General  Arista,  the 
commanding  oflScer  on  the  northern  frontier,  on  the  12th 
day  of  Septembc^,  1845. 

■  Mexico,  however,  was  without  the  means  to  sustain  any 
considerable  body  of  troops  in  active  service.  Torn  and 
distracted  by  intestine  divisions, — her  statesmen  and  pol- 
iticians directing  their  whole  energies  to  the  advance- 
ment of  private  or  factious  interests, — she  presented  a 
continued  scene  of  turbulence,  the  waves  of  popular  anar- 
cliy  sometimes  rolling  with  the  fury  and  madness  of  the 
tempest,  but  never,  like  the  after-tossing  of  the  ocean, 
subsiding  to  the  happy  calm  in  unison  with  her  repub- 
lican institutions. 

There  were  other  causes  calculated  to  heighten  the  im- 
bittered  feelings  cherished  by  Mexico.  The  American 
people  had  gladly  aided  her  in  achieving  her  independ- 
ence, and  she  wag  angry  that  she  had  received  favors 
which  had  been  repaid  with  ingratitude  and  insults. 
During  the  protracted  warfare,  too,  between  Spain  and 
Mexico,  and  the  internal  commotions  which  had  disturbed 
the  tranquillity  of  the  latter,  vessels  sailing  under  the 
American  flag  were  plundered,  and  the  property  of  Amer- 
ican merchants  confiscated,  by  Mexican  authorities.  The 
government  of  the  United  States  remonstrated  against 
these  wanton  and  illegal  seizures  and  confiscations. 
Mexico  was  liberal  of  her  promises  of  redress,  but  she 
postponed  or  evaded  their  fulfilment.  Negotiations  were 
opened,  but  they  were  characterized  on  her  part  by  bad 


I 


4w" 


•«*! 

MUS 


i 


?4.'5SS?!ft^SS!  "3fts1J5i''c'i-^*'^ 


jxjyi.-fy-ynijij^i.i  ;«*fin'- 


244 


JAMKS    KNOX   POLK. 


[1845-8. 


1  1  .i.,,r      mip   tMitercd  into  trca- 

At  RUoiii,  V.  ac  ustincut   of    tlio 

p.venmu.nts   respectively,   ioi    the   '^  J  ^  ^ 

tl.M.s  ul'  American  citizens.     They  met  in  IS-^^'.  "^  '^V 
r  1    ..iViuis  to  the  amount  of  over   two   millions  ot 
„l,mttea   cUnnstotue  -^^40,  wl.en  the  con, - 

■1  ,1'rn-^   iu  the  month  ot   l-ebuuiy,  lo-t-, 

•     1      h>-u'in.'  claims  to  the  amom.t  of  about 

1  ,.,1   .u.l  T.anie.l  to  the  AnuTican   elannants,  ^^asa(l 

,1  auuU-l  into  twentv  instalments,  three  ot  vNhith,^MtU 

"        aue  un  tl,;  30th  of  April,  1839,  v.ere   pai-l, 

iiltX        a       gin.taUnents,connneiieing.ithti.tpay- 

bu   thcuma       „  due  by  Mexico  ^vhen  she 

attending  the  annexation  of Jexas      v    ^  ^^^.^^^^ 

a..<rravatoil  than  ^s'as  alleged  by  Mexico,  repro 
hl^e  ill  become  her,  and  complaints  appeared  like  addin, 
insult  to  injury.  ^  .^^  ^.^^^,  ^^   ^,^^p,y  ,, 

J;:i:fL^— s.erelioUow,andthoughbe. 


[1845-8. 


1845-8.J 


BOUNDARY    OF   TEXAS. 


245 


itorcd  into  trca- 
tid  thorclorc  vio- 

T>tcd  by  the  two 
justineut   of    tlio 
inl840,ivn(lhad 
two   inillions  ot" 
2,  wlion  the  coni- 
juuouut  of  about 
lie   sum  ackuowl- 
;liinuaiits,  was  ad- 
r  vofiuost,  ami  for 
:of  was  postponed, 
li-ee  of  wliiob,  witli 
1839,  were  paid, 
,clng  with  tliat  pav- 
r  iVIexico  when  she 
the  United  States- 
the  Mexican  gov- 
chastisement  from 
Itates,  in  a  spirit  of 
forbearance,  rarely 
tohopc   that  better 
d  prompt  her  rulers 
ad  the  circumstances 
tlven,  been  far  more 
ico,  reproaclies  would 
appeared  like  adding 

CO  were  as   empty  a:; 
oUow,  and  though  her 


valiant  proclamations  and  decrees  were  entirely  unpro- 
dK.-tiveof  results,  she  <li.l  not  recede  from  her  position, 
that  the  anaexatioii  of  Texas  was  tantamount  to  a  decla- 
ratioi,  of  war.  To  that  she  was  committed  by  every  act 
of  hrv  executive  authorities  which  could  ^Wc  it  force  or 
solemn;  cy.  Thej  had  <leliberately  place.l  themselves 
'ipon  r.eord,  and  published  to  the  world  the  ^^round  thev 
had  tak,n,  "^ 

Diplomatic  intercourse  being  suspended,  and  a  state  of 
war  declared  to  exist,  no  alternative  was  left  to  the  United 
Stares  but  that  of  extending  their  authoritv  over  Texas, 
without   further  reference  to  Mexico.     In  doing   this,  it 
was  evident  that  a  question  might  arise  as  to  how  far  the 
western  and  southwest(>rn  boundary  of  the  newly  acquired 
territory  exten.led.     Had  not  the  authorities  of  Mexico 
flattered  themselves  into  the  belief,  that  the  insolence  and 
bravado  which  tlu.'v  had  so  long  displayed  with  impunity 
toward  the  American  Republic,  would  continue  to  be  un- 
resented,  this  question  might,  and  would  have  been,  ami- 
cably settled ;    for   hy   the  resolution   of  Congress,  no 
territory  was  ann(^xe,l  excei)t  that  rightfully  belonging  to 
Texas,  and  all  questions  of  boundary  that  might  arise  \dth 
other  governments  were  left  subject  to  adjustment  by  the 
federal  government  of  the   United   States.     But  by  the 
act  of  Mexico,  her  diplomatic  relations  with  us  were  in- 
terrupted, and  no   other  course  was  left  to  our  govern- 
ment, but  that  of  deciding  the  jjuestion  of  boundary  for 
themselves,  and  acting  upon  that  decision  until  Mexico 
was   disposed  to  negotiate.     Had  arrv'  other  course  been 
adopted,— had  the  government  of  the  United  States  cow- 
ered before  the  loud-sounding  proclamations  fulminated 


'■-M.«0im'"A"'i^mj'ffii^ 


■rag.  'w:-jw*v>r.- 


246 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1845-8. 


by  the  Mexican  Executive -her  reprosenta Uvos  ^vouM 
have  been  scorned  at  every  court  in  the  crnhml  vvoria. 
True,  actual  war,  instead  of  that  nominally  existing  a. 
M.xieo  declared,  was  likely  to  ensue  ;  but  war  is  always 
to  be  preferred  to  a  dishonorable  peace  ;  and  a  war  in 
support  and  vindication  of  national  honor,  wherever  tlio 
arms  of  the  injured  country  may  be  earned,  is  a  war  ot 

defence.  ,,     .  n  ■, 

Previous  to   her  secession  from  the  Mexican  confcl- 
evacy.  the  pohtical  limits  of  Texas  "were  the  Nuceos 
Vive;  on  the  west ;  along  the  Red  river  on  the  north -,    ho 
Sabine  on  the  east;   and  the  Gulf  of  Mexico  on  the 
south  "*     But  it   is  unnecessary  to  inquire  what  were 
the  boundaries  of  Texas,  prior  to  that  event,  because  it 
is  a  familiar  principle  of  national   law,  that   boundane. 
are  always  obliterated  by  a  revolution,  as   they  are  by  a 
war  between  two  contiguous  countries.     Just  so  tar  as 
Texas  extended  her  power  and  authority  during  the  revo- 
lutionary struggle,  her  title  was  good  against  every  other 
government  except  Mexico;  and  against  the  latter  a. o, 
if  the  secession,  as  has  been  contended,  was  .lustifiable, 
and  if  the   extension  of  authority   consisted  of  positive 
acts,  or  was  acknowledged  by  Mexico.     In   determining 
the  question  of  boundary,  therefore,  the  government  of 
the  United  States  had  only  to  ascertain  how  far,  it  at  all, 
Texas  had  extended  her  limits  by  conquest  or  occupation, 
or  by  the  assent,  express  or  implied,  of  the  constituted 

•  authorities  of  Mexico.  . ,    ,         ,,„„,, 

At  an  early  period  of  her  contest  with  ihe  central  gov- 

.  Letter  of  H.  M.  Morflt.  House  of  ReneBcntative*.  Doc.  35. 2d  Session 
24thCongt««. 


[1845-S. 

sentativcs  would 
c  civilized  world, 
ually  existing  us 
)ut  war  is  always 
V,  and  a  war  in 
lor,  wherever  the 
irried,  is  a  war  of 

Mexican  confed- 
were  the  Nuoces 
on  the  north ;  tho 
,f  Mexico  on  the 
iquiro  what  wore 

event,  because  it 
,  that   boundaries 

as   they  are  by  a 
s.     Just  £0  far  as 
ty  during  the  rcvo- 
igainst  every  other 
nst  the  latter  also, 
:d,  was  justifiable, 
nsisted  of  positive 
..     In   doteriuhiing 
the  government  of 
in  how  far,  if  at  all, 
[jucst  or  occupation, 
of  the  constituted 

ith  the  central  gov- 

*tive«,Doc-85,2dSes8ioa 


m 

18-15-8.]        ACT   OF   THE    TEXAN    CONGRESS.  247 

ornmentof  Mexico,  Texas  "made  her  mark,"  as  was 
said  by  one  of  lior  Senators  in  the  American  Congress,* 
and  asserted  her  claim  to  the  whole  territory  lying  on  the 
left  bank  of  the  Rio  Grande,  or   Rio   Bravo   del  Norte. 
The  advantages  oflbred  by  that  "grand  and  solitary  river" 
US  a  great  natural  military  barrier  or  obstacle,  were  so 
apparent  to  the  Texan  officers,  that  at  the  capitulation  of 
General  Cos,  in  December,  1835,  it  was  stipulated  in  tho 
articles  of  surrender,  signed  by  the  commissioners  appoint- 
ed by  Generals  Burleson  and  Cos,  and  approved  by  them, 
that  the  latter  sliould  retire  beyond  the  Rio  Grande,  and 
provisions  were  furnished  to  tho  Mexican  army  to  sustain 
thein  till  they  reached  that  river,  as  if  it  were  tho  proper 
frontier  of  their  own  country.f 

In  Aprd,  1830,  the  last  decisive' encounter  took  place 
at  San  Jacinto.     The  Mexican  army  was  almost  aniiil.i- 
lated,  andtheir  commander  Santa  Anna,  with  eight  Imn- 
dred  of  his  troops,   w,  re  uiimU.   prisoners.     Tli"    wli.,lo 
invading  army  was  tl.ei.  in  the  power  of  tiic  Texans  ;  and 
in  order  to  save  tliem  liom  dcstriictioii  and  to  rogai',,  l,i,s 
own  liberty,  Santa  Anna,  in  l,i,s  character  as  President 
of  the  Mexican  Republic  and  clothed  with  the  supreme 
power,  entered  into  an  agreement  and  solemn   csinpact 
^^th   President   Burnet,  of  Texas,  and  his  cabinet,  by 
which  the  independence  of  Texas  was   «cknowl..(lge.l'; 
and  it  was  also  stipulated  therein,  that  the  Mexican' 
troops  should  evacuate  the  territory  of  Texas  and  retire 
beyond  the  Rio  Grande,  and  that  rivtji-,  from  its  mouth 

♦IIon.T.  J.  Rusk. 

t_Articlcs  of  Capitulation  signed  at  .''nn  Antonio  dc  Bexar,  December  II 
18.30.  ' 


1 


•■''t:~*^:^'--fX'mrL-.r,iiJjiUi^.iiiru.,;mis.'i>iJuria!«v^i»Mi 


248 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1H.5-S. 


to  the  42d  degree  of  north  latitude,  should  fo-ver  bo  the 
lino  of  demarcation  between  the  two  eom.tv.o«.      A  eopy 
of  this  agreement  wa.  forwarded  to  General  F. h.o  a, 
tben  at  Z  head  of  about  five  tl.usaud  t-P^,    >    - 
,„ains  of  the  shattered  army,  of  u.v.s.on      He  >as  fiom 
".  ty  to  fifty  mile,  distant,  but  co.npletcly  at  the  mer  y 
of  the  Texan  forees,  now  flushed  with  eon.uest  and  co  - 
fiae,.t  in  their  ability  to  achieve  other  victories       Iho 
ompct  .as  therefore  approved  by  Gen.-a  Fdiso la,  and 
its  propriety  and  validity  ever  delended  by  am  ^        e 
was  now  permitted  to  retire  beyond  the  R.o  Giandc 
without  molestation,  and  thus  .aved  Ins  army  fiom  de- 

^^^:;t';reen.nt  was  lilcowise  approved  by  oUierMexU 

can  gene;;i  officers,  and  by  the  .ecretaryo...rt^g^^ 

.ot  Lified  by  their  Con,re.t  was..   ^^^ 

Anna  was  a  prisoner  ot  war  xNlK^i   tUo   tuaiyw. 

^" was  conduded,  and  tU.t  no  ..ivnuent  entered  into 

rbim  under  dure^s,  was  uM,,:;o.-y  upon  las  go^^^^^^^ 

nent.     But  Mexico  had  profitea  by  the  act,  in  the  res- 
ueofherarn.ytVomdisasterandd.s^ace;seW 

reaped  the  benefit  of  tho  compact,  and  good  faith  re- 

ouired  that  she  should  ratify  it. 

'Las,  however,  decided  firmly  to  adhere  to  the  R.o 

Gi.anao:sthebounda..andonthel9thoflecen^, 
1S30,  an  act  was  pa...!  by  her  Congress,  estabh.  n  ^ 
,,,,  Viver,  from  its  mouth  up  its  principal  s  ream  t  ts 
source,  as  such  boundary.  From  tl-  -urce  o  the  rl^.r 
the  line  on  the  north  and  ea^t  was  declared  to  be      as 

.Articles  v.,  ^.  t  ^^- ...V.u.e  of  C>--1  FiKs.KJu.o  ,0,  .S3«. 


1(1  forever  bo  the 
ntvios.*    A  copy 
jeneral  Filisola, 
1(1  troops,  tlic  re- 
n.     lie  Wii3  from 
ely  at  the  morcy 
lonijuest  and  con- 
{  victories.     The 
leral  Filisola,  and 
L'd  by  him.t     He 
the  Rio  Grande 
lis  army  fioin  de- 
ed by  other  Mexi- 
iry  of  Avar,  though 
is  said,  that  Santa 
treaty  or.conven- 
•niout  entered  into 
upon  his  govern- 
tho  act,  in  the  res- 
disg^vace;   ?he  liad 
and  good  faith  re- 
adhere  to  the  Rio 
i9th  of  December, 
ngvess,  establisliing 
neipal  stream  to  its 
;  source  of  the  river, 
declared   to  be  "as 

il  Fii;s"lii..Tuiio  in,  ISIMi, 


1845-8.]       CLAIM    TO   PART   OF   NEW   MEXICO.  249 

<lefined  between  the  United  States  and  Spain  "*  In 
con,pIiance  with  a  call  of  the  Senate,  pending  the  discus- 
sion on  the  treaty  of  1844,  President  Tyler  sor.t  in  a 
•nnp  ot  the  country  proposed  to  be  ceded,  upon  whic-h 
lie  boinulanes,  as  above  described,  were  marked  in  red 

ln.es       1  he  act  of  the  Texan  Congress  was  unrepealed, 
at  the  time  of  her  final  admission  by  a  law  of  tlu"  Unite.l 
.States,  passed  the  29th  day  of  December,  I84r, ;  the  new 
constitution  adopted,  iinpaire.l  its  validitv  in  no  respect 
as  It  expressly  p,ovided   for  coatin.iing  all   pii„r  em.et-' 
nients  ,n  full  force;   and  on  the  Jil.st  dav  of  December 
two  da^-s  after  she  was  admitted  as  a  stale,  the  Congress 
<'l  the  United  .States  passed  a  hav  estahlishin-r  ".^  J,,^^ 
turn  district  in  the  State  of  Texas,"  and  Cor;us  Cliristi, 
^vest  of  the  .\aeoes,  was   made  a  port  of  delivery,  for 
JvhKMa_.,n.vyorwas  afterwards  appointed.     Tlni  the 
boundane,  claimed  by  Texas  were  approved  and  adopted 
by  the  government  of  the  United  States.     . 

The  claim  of  Texas  to  that  portion  of  New  Mexico 
I.yng  east  of  the  Rio  Grande  was  somewhat  doubtful 
except  the  treaty  with  Santa  Anna  be  considered  valid! 
She  had  exercised  no  acts  of  sovereignty  there,  and  the 
'•"ly  expedition  sent  to  assert  her  anthorit,  was  unsuc- 
cysslui      Siio  did  not  reduce  the  territorv  t^  her  pos«o«- 
^.on  and  occupancy,  but  she  at  all  tim...  asserted  a  ri.i.r 
-l^el.,  sa^l  Mr.  Poilc,   "  is  .believed,  under  tl,e  act:',. f 
'  ongress  for  the  annexation  and  admission  .f  Tevas  i„to 
t.:e  Lniou  as  a  state,  and  under  the  constitution  und  laws 

*  Tliis. let  fnllowodVei'v  iipiii-lv  tl,i.  )■,-.„ -.<■  .i      . 

11* 


] 

i 

i 


'^'"^•^■'^^•^!f,'S^f7iv'''^.rm9ir^'''^.-^K>'^uj^--^fiyMAKifn^^ 


250 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[l8i5-8. 


of  Texas,  to  bo  well  founded  ;"•  anu  when  the  claim  of 
MexL  ;a8  extinguished  by  the  treaty  of  Guadalupe 
Hidalgo,  the  previous  inchoate  right  of  Texas  became 

^lrt:to::f:-en  the  Nueces.^ 
Grande,  the  claim  of  Texas,  and  subsequently  o    the 
United  States,  was  as  good  as  to  any  portion  of  the  torr  -. 
tory  between  the  Nueees  and  the  Sab.ne;  and  Us  occu- 
pancy by  the  American  troops,  as  distinguished  from  he 
od^r  part  of  Texas,  was  never  complamed  of  by  the 
M  xican  government,  nor  do  they  appear  to  have  boon 
^le  how  deeply  they  were  wronged  m  tlnsjs^^^^^^^ 
until  the  question  was  raised  in  the  United  States  by  the 

^t:^Srtr^;t^J:.th;  Rio  Grande  as  the 
.vestern  boundary  of  Texas  was  clearly  u.tunate.1  in  t.o 
Tti  les  of  capitulation  approved  by  General  Cos,  a.l 
asserted  in  the  treaty  with  ^-f  ^nna,  wbch,  ^  P    - 
Bessing  no  greater  force,  operated  as  a  notice  o  M  x.co 
of  t^e' extent  to  which  Texas  was  detemme^  ^^f  "Jl; 
After  it  became  known  that  Mexico  would  not  ratify  the 
tn  ention  concluded  with  Santa  Anna  and  approved  by 
he  other  Mexican  officers,  and  that  Urrea  was  preparing 
to  invade  Texas,  General  Rusk,  then  at  the  head  of  the 
Texl  army,  ordered  General  Felix  Huston  to  take  po- 
sition, with  a  detachment,  at  Corpus  Chnsti;  and  the 
atter  sent  his  scouting  parties  to  the  Rio  G-nde      A 
that  time  there  were  no  permanent  settlernents  on  the  le 
bank  of  the  river,  with  the  exception  of  a  few  ranchos 
Xv^l  Mier,  Ca'margo,  Reinosa,  and  Matamoras,  the 

#  Special  Message  of  President  Polk,  July  21, 1W8. 


J 


[l8i5-8. 

len  the  claim  of 
ly  of  Guadalupe 
f  Texas  became 

ind  the  lower  Rio 
)8equently  of  the 
»rtion  of  the  terri- 
ne ;  and  its  occu- 
nguishcd  from  the 
plained  of  by  the 
ear  to  have  boon 
1  in  this  respect, 
litcd  States  by  tlic> 

Rio  Grande  as  the 
ly  intimiited  in  liit> 

General  Cos,  and 
nna,  which,  if  pos- 
a  notice  to  Mexico 
eterrained  to  claim, 
(vould  not  ratify  the 
na  and  approved  by 
Jrrea  was  preparing 
1  at  tlje  head  of  the 

Huston  to  take  po- 
s  Christi;  and  the 
le  Rio  Grande.  At 
sttlements  on  the  left 
ion  of  a  few  ranchos 
and  Matamoras,  the 

:,  July  24,  ISiS. 


184r»-8.J     EXKiinsF.  01'  authoritv  iiv  ti;xa.s.      251 

occupants  of  wliich  had  boon  enp^n!T(vl  in  hcnliii;^  nrnl 
Himi;r;,'liiig,  but  took  refuge  on  the  west  side  of  tlie  Ilio 
Granilo,  upon  the  approach  of  J  fusion's  troops.  TIk- 
great  majority  of  the  inhabitants  retired  to  the  roar  of 
Rusk's  army,  in  compliance  with  \ni  orders.  Urroa 
crossed  the  river  but  onee,  and  so(m  roturiiet).  Althou;/!! 
he  liad  10,000  men  at  Matamoras,  Genera'  Huston  lield 
in  subjection  the  whole  country  to  the  Rio  Grande,  and 
his  nilvanced  corps  traversed  it  at  pleasure. 

In  December,  lS?j(!,  wlien  the  law  prescri])ing  the 
boundaries  of  Texas  was  passed,  she  was  in  possession  of 
the  disputed  territory,  and  lier  civil  and  political  juris- 
diction Vas  extended  over  it.  Custom-houses,  post- 
offices  and  post- roads,  and  election  precincts,  were  estab- 
lished west  of  the  Nueces.  The  eomity  of  San  Patricio 
Mas  laid  out  reaching  to  the  Rio  Grande.  The  public 
lands  between  the  two  rivers  were  surveyed  and  sold,  and 
all  the  evidences  of  grants  and  transfers  of  land,  subsc- 
•juent  to  the  revolution  of  1834,  were  enter vd  among  the 
records  of  Texas.  Persons  holding  colony  contracts 
made  by  the  department  of  Tam.aulipas,  which  was 
bounded  on  the  east  by  the  Nueces,  prior  to  the  revolu- 
tion, voted  at  Corpus  Christi,  under  the  laws  of  Texas. 
The  place  of  voting  was  near  the  Nueces,  more  than  one 
hundred  and  fifty  miles  from  the  Rio  Grande ;  but  in  the 
western  and  southwestern  states  of  the  American  Union, 
county  towns  have  frequently  been  situated  over  one 
hundred  miles  distant  from  the  remotest  limits  of  the 
county. 

Members  of  the  Texan  Congress  wore  elected,  who  re- 
sided on  the  right  bank  of  the  Nueces,  several  years  pre- 


WWt)jM.il^i4»HHU  ,iHHitJI 


252 


JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


[1.845-8. 


vious  to  tlie  annexation ;  and  that  part  of  Texas  was  rep- 
resented, too,  in  tlio  Congress  and  intho  Convention   by 
which  the  resolution  of  annexation  was  accepte.l.     'I'lio 
collectoral  district  of  Aransas  was  established  by  tiie  first 
Congress  of  Texas,  and  extended  from  the  mouth  of  the 
San  Antonio  to  the  Uio  Gran.k-.     Boats  were  repeatedly 
sent  out  by  the  collector  to  watch  the  coast,  and  recon- 
noitre the  Laguna  Madre  and  the  Brazos.     In  tlie  lall  ut 
1838,  when  their  ports  were  blockaded  by  the  French 
tlcet,  the  Mexicans  secretly  landed  a  cargo  of  Hour  at  a 
place  about  ten  miles  west  of  the  present  town  of  Corpus 
(niristi,  for  the  purpose  of  conveying  it  across  the  coun- 
try.    The  flour  was  destroyed,  and  the  vessel  seifcd,  un- 
der the  orders  of  the  collector  of  the  district,  for  violatu.g 
the  revenue  laws  of  Texas. 

The  Texan  troops  being  in  great  part  withdrawn,  in 
the  spring  of  1837,  as  no  apprehensions  of  danger  were 
then  entertained,  the  Mexican  rancUros  ventured  acro.^s 
,  the  Rio  Grande  to  herd  their  cattle;  but  they  were  im- 
mediately attacked  by  the  Texan  »  cow-boys,"  as  they 
wore  termed,  and  compelled  to  cross  over  to  the  right 
bank.     Repeated  efforts  were  made  by  the  rancUros  to 
establish  themselves  permanently,  but  the  "  cow-boys," 
though  not  acting  under  any  positive  orders  of  the  Texan 
government,  resisted  every  attempt,  and  during  the  de- 
sultory contests  which  took  place,  from  1837  to  1842, 
drove  oft- nearly  80,000  head  of  cattle.     The  Mexican 
authorities  uniformly  discountenanced  the  establishment 
of  any  permanent  settlements  north  of  the  river,  and  the 
civil  jurisdiction  of  the  department  of  Tamaulipas  was 
exerted  but  rarely,  if  at  all,  in  that  part  of  its  ancient 


[1.845-8. 


.I84r>-8.| 


LAR1.0O. 


253 


of  Texas  was  rep- 
ho  Convention   by 
18  acceptcil.     'I'lio 
iblished  by  the  lirst 
the  mouth  of  the 
,ts  were  repeatedly 
u  coast,  and  recon- 
203.     In  the  fall  uf 
ed  by  the   Freneli 
cargo  of  ilour  at  a 
enttownof  Corpus 
it  across  the  coun- 
e  vessel  soifcd,  un- 
listrict,  for  violating 

part  withdrawn,  in 
ms  of  danger  weie 
'ros  ventured  across 
but  they  were  im- 
cow-boys,''  as  they 
188  over  to  the  right 
>y  the  ranc/Uros  to 
ut  the  "  cow-boys,'' 
orders  of  the  Texan 
and  during  the  de- 
from  1837  to  1842, 
ttle.     The  Mexican 
li  the  establishment 
of  the  river,  and  the 
of  Tamaulipas  was 
t  part  of  its  ancient 


dominions.     After  the  d<'foat  of  the  federalistns,  who  re- 

volted  against  tlie  central  goveriniient  of  Mexico  in  ls;j!>, 

Generals    Anaya    and  Canalos,  two    of   their    leaders, 

crossed  over  the  Uio  Grande  for  protection.     'I'he  latter 

united  iiis  forces  with  those  of  Captain  Uoss,  of  the  Texan 

rangers,   and    a   number  of  ''  cow-boys."     Tjioy    then 

crossed   the  river,    and  drove    the  Mexican  army  into 

Malamoras.     Canales  took  shelter  'in  Texas  again,  in 

IS-tO,  when  he  was  joined  by  Colonel  .Ionian,  with  near 

two    hundred    "cow-boys."       They    cn.ssed    the    Rio 

lirandc  a  second  time,  and  penetrated  us  far   into  the 

country  as  Saltillo,  wlua-e  Canales  betrayed  his  allies, 

who  succeeded,  however,  in  fighting  their  way  back  to  the 

river. 

After  the  invasion  and  defeat  of  Woll  in   1.S42,  flie 
Texan  army  (h-ovo  him  across  the  Rio  Giandu  and  toi^k 
possession  of  Laredo.     At  this  point  there  had  been  a 
military  organization,  previous  to  the  revolution  in  Texas, 
which  was  in  existence  when  the  army   of  the  United 
States  marched  to  the  Rio  Grande.     On  account  of  their 
liability  to  be  attacked  by  the  Indians  in  their  vicinity, 
the  inhabitants  of  Laredo  were  excepted  from  the  opera- 
tion of  the  act  disarming  the  citizens  of  Coaliuila   ami 
Texas  ;  but  they  claimed  to  belong  to  the  latter  wlienev.  r 
they  were  visited  by  Hays  and  McCulloch's  rangers,  wlio 
iVe(iuently  crossed  over  the  country  from  San  Antonio,  to 
tliiit  and  other  jtoiiits  on  the  river;  and  in   a  proclama- 
tion issued  in  1^4(i,  Canales  called  them  Texans.     They 
were  prolmhiy  of  Mexican  extraction;  hut  the  authority 
whieh  Mexico  excreis, d  over  them  was  far  more  quea- 
tioiiahle  tliuii  thai  of  Texas. 


I'tBJL'.B    K.,,.1JL.jfl,ye 


2o-t 


JAMKH    KNOX    J'OI.K. 


[18-15-8. 


JJ(<hitloH  the  sottli'incnt  nt  Lamlo,  tlit-ro  wore  a  few 
stni}r<;rm^'  Inits  iil  Point  Iwabcl,  iwar  the  Urazos  Snntin-o, 
occ\riM<'.l  by  Mexican  ti^licniicn  ami  Mim^'^lers.     J)uriii- 
tlie  war  with  l-'runcc,  gnods  iiiiporlctl  hy  the  mordinnti 
(if  Miitiunoms  were  often  hiii<hMl  hy  Htetihh  at  tlio  lirazos, 
ii,  oi.hT  t(.  eseape  the  notice  of  the  French  bloekailin- 
licet  lyiii;:  ('IV  the  nioutli  cf  the  Uio  (Jiamh'.     An  a^'ent 
ef  tlie\'iiNtoni-h(in>e,  whicii  was  on  tlie  rij^ht  hank  of  tlie 
UioCirande  and  in  the  Mexican  tervitoVy,  was  sent  to  re- 
t;ide  at  Point  lsiihrl,to  collect  t^c  iluties  before  the  goods 
were  taken  over  the  river,  and  u  revenue  oflieer  of  a  sinii- 
hir  character  was  eontiuncd  there  until  ilu<  apiivoaeh  of 
(Jencral  'I'ayh.r  with  his  army,  in  the  sprin-  of  IH-Hl, 
when  he  voluntarily  retire<l  across  the  rivt  r,  having  never 
been    in   the  least   dejj;ree   molested,    hy  the  American 
troops,  in  the  exercise  of  his  authority,  \\hatsoever  ho 
mij^ht  rightfully  have  possessed. 

By  the  boundary  act  of  the  Texan  Congress,  no  title 
was  acquired  to  the.  disputed  territory,  except  as  it  was 
followed  and  supported  hy  the  civil  and  military  author- 
ity which  she  exercised.     She  did  not  fortify  the  whole 
left  baidc  of  the  Rio  Grande,  nor  plant  her  ilag  at  every 
prominent  point  on  the  Gulf  of  Mexico  ;  but  her  ability 
10  drive  the  Mexicans  from  the  territory,  at  pleasure,  to 
their  place  of'  security   beyond  the  river,  was  demon- 
.     strated  ;  and  if  private  individuals  at  any  time  returmd 
tbere  and  established  themselves,  it  would  seem  to  have 
been  done  merely  by  her  sufferance.     The  authority  ex- 
ercised by  Texas,  in  the  valley  of  the  Nueces,  atid^  upon 
its  western  bank,  iiicln<lin^Lr   the  settlement  at  Corpus 
Christi,  was  undoubted  and  undeniable.     In  the  other 


aaj^asgssmgy 


[1845-8. 

• 

tlicrc  woro  ti  few 
he  Urazds  Siuitiiijio, 
iiiii;.'glt'rs.     J)iiriii{i 

I  by  tlio  incrdmuti 
ciiltli  at  tlic  IJra/.os, 

French  bluckailiii}^ 
[Jiaiulc.  All  a;j:fiit 
ii>  rij^lit  hank  dl"  tin- 
tol-y,  was  sent  to  n - 
ties  h(  fiiro  thi«  ;;(km1s 
niu'tiilicfi'<)t'  a  simi- 
itil  ihi<  apiivdach  ui 
the  spring  of  18-I(i, 
'  livt  r,  liivvinf;  ni'Vii' 
,  hv  the  Anioviean 
pi-ity,  whatsoever  he 

II  Congress,  no  title 
)ry,  except  as  it  was 
nnd  mihtary  aiithov- 
lot  fortily  the  wlioh- 
ant  lier  ling  at  every 
ico;  but  her  ability 
itory,  at  plea.Mire,  to 
:'  river,  was  dcnion- 
at  any  time  returned 
;  Avoiikl  seem  to  have 
.  Tlic  autliority  ex- 
hc  Nueees,  and  upon 
■iettlenient  at  Curpiis 
liable.     In  the  other 


IbJo-b.J 


Aii.MrsMioNs  OK  Mr.xico. 


::-:T:;^-,i»^2»rr:tSiJ?S?3r 


p.yt   t.r  the   territory   in   dispute,   there  could  not  have 
lieeii  1.11..  hundred  prrs(,i,.s  „«  late  as  IsM,  and  it  cannot 
Inlaid  witii  Justice,  that  the  Mexicans  then  had  atn  ''  ue- 
lii:il   possession  or  fixed  habitation  east  of   tlie  Kio  (hi 
Norte,"  between  the  (Julf  of  Mexico  and  tho  "  iliountain- 
oiis  harriers  iit  the  Pass,"*  with  tho  exception  of  what 
tli-y  iiii;.dit  claim  at  fiaredo  nnd  Urazo.s  Santiago.     Mr. 
Dunel.Mdi,  1,10  .V.iie<'i.Mii  c/ai/'i^  (l\,f„ires,  called  the  at- 
t'niion  of  the  iiovernnient  of  tiio  I'nited  Stnt.'s,  and  of 
Ceneial  Taylor,  io  i!  ••  .■xlstrnee  ni'  these  settlements,  or 
posts,  in  the  spring  of  lS-i:).t     'l'iu«  latter  was  expressly 
in.strneted,  when  he  entered  the  territory,  not  to  interfeio 
Avith  tho  establi.sliineiits  made  by  Mexico,  and  to  respect 
till'  rl-lits  and  property  lA'  private  citizeim  ;  and  it  is  un- 
necessary to  say,    that   his   orders    were  faithfully   ob- 
served. 

Ikit,  ui  ailditionto  these  facts,  Mexico  herself,  through 
her  agents  nnd  ollicers,  tacitly  ndmitted  tiio  claim  of 
Texas  to  the  lower  Kio  Grande,  on  several  occnsions  ; 
although,  as  a  general  thing,  she  made  no  distinction  in 
regard  to  any  jiart  of  the  country  between  that  rivev  and 
the  Sabine.  _  Her  claim  extended  to  the  whole  of  Texas, 
iind  the  comparatively  unimportant  f|uestion  of  boundary 
Avas  in(>rged  in  the  greater  one  of  title.  AJways  insistiiig 
upon  her  right  to  every  part  and  parcel  of  Texas,  wlici° 
ever,  subsequent  to  the  battle  of  San  Jacinto,  she  adopt- 
ed, cither  voluntarily  or  by  compulsion,  a  limit  to  tho 

*  .M.moir  of  Lieut,  l^mory :   Senate  Doc.  :ill-lst  sosiiion,  28th  ConRreaa 
—p.  5(f. 

t  l.dtrra  to  Mr.  Burlmimu,  Juno  3()tL,  and  July  11  ;-to General  Taylor 
Juuo  28th,  and  July  7. 


250 


JAMES    KNOX    I'OLK. 


[1845-8. 


territory,  all  of  which  she  rogarded  as  having  been  forci- 
bly and  unjustly  wrested  from  her,  that  limit  was  the 
Rio  Grande.  Tlic  southern  and  western  bank  of  the 
river  formed  the  outer  limit  of  her  military  posts  and 
fortifications.  When  her  armies  crossed  it  in  force, 
the  preparations  made,  the  dispositions  for  the  march, 
and  the  orders  of  the  officers,  showed  that  the  movement 
was  considered  one  of  invasion  ;  and  when  compelled  to 
retreat,  they  retired  behind  it  as  to  a  place  of  refuge. 

\n  armistice  was  proposed  in  1843,  in  which  it  was 
(Stipulated  that  the  Mexicans  should  confine  themselves 
to  the  ri.'ht  baidv  of  the  river,  and  that  the  Texans  should 
remain  on  the  left  bank.    Tornel,  the  minister  of  war,  m 
his  letter  dated  July  Tth,   instructed  General  WoU,  the 
commander-in-chief  of  the  army  of  the  north,  that  hos- 
tilities against  Texas  were  "  to  be  immediately  suspend- 
ed at  all  points  of  the  line  under  [his]  command,"  and 
that  he  must  withdraw  to  it  his  advanced  parties.*    The 
line  commanded  by  General  Woll  was  the  Rio  Grande  ; 
and  in  his  proclamation   declaring  the  armistice  at  an 
end,'  he  gave   notice   that  every  individual  found  one 
league  from   the  river,   on  the  east,  would  be  looked 
upo°n  as  favoring  »  the  usurpers  of  that  territory,"  and 
be  brought  to  trial  before  a  court-martial,  to  be  severely 
punished,  if  found  guilty.     Here,  it  seems,  the  Mexican 
general  treated  the  question  as  one  of  usurpation,  and 
admitted  that  the  territory  usurped  extended  to  the  Rio 
Grande.  Canales,  also,  issued  a  pronunciamento  against 
the  government  of  Paredcs,  at  Camargo,  in  February, 

•  Senate  Doc.  ail-lst  session,  28th  Cod  ,ro33-p.  84. 


TTs^fUm*-" 


K. 


[1845-8. 


19  having  been  forci- 
tliat  limit  was  the 
ve«toin  bank  of  the 
■  military  posts  and 
crossed   it  in  force, 
ions  for  the  march, 
(I  tliat  the  movement 
id  when  compelled  to 
a  place  of  refuge. 
43,  in  which  it  was 
Id  confine  themselves 
at  the  Texans  should 
le  minister  of  Avar,  in 
■d  General  WoU,  the 
the  north,  that  hos- 
immediately  suspend- 
"his'J  command,"  and 
'anced  parties.*    Tlic 
ias  the  Rio  Grande  ; 
;  the  armistice  at  an 
individual  found  one 
ast,  would  be  looked 
'  that  torritory,"  and 
nartial,  to  be  severely 
it  seems,  the  Mexican 
ic  of  usurpation,  and 
1  extended  to  the  Rio 
•onunciamento  against 
Jamargo,  in  February, 

18th  Cor  jtoss— p.  84. 


irg^fw 


1845-8.J       AMERICAN    ADVANCE    UNOPPOSED.  257 

1840,  in  which  he  described  himself  as  being  ''on  the 
northern  frontier."*  It  is  very  questionable  rvhether  he 
would  have  used  this  expression,  if,  in  his  opinion,  the 
actual  frontier  was  the  Nueces,  from  150  to  200  miles 
lurthor  north. 

The  intention  of  General  Taylor  to  advance  to  the  Rio 
(..•M,Hlo  was  known  long  before  his  army  commenced  its 
'""'•^■1';  reconnoissancesofthe  dilJlTent  routes   by  land 
nnd  water,  of  Padre  Island,  the  Laguna  Ma<lre,  and  the 
h-azos,  were  made  early  in  February,  1846  ;  and  the 
act  that  a  forward  move.nent  was  in  contemplation,  had 
heeu  comnumicated  by  the  Mexican  officers  on  the  fron- 
t..-r  to  then-  government.    Notwithstanding  this,  no  pren- 
"nUK.ns  were  n,ade  to  resist  the  approach  of  the  Afri- 
can general,  and  he  was  in<luced,  from  the  entire  absence 
ot  >u.ch  preparations,  to  believe  that  ho  would  encounter 
no  opposition.f     The  situation  of  the  country  afforded 
-unerous   opportunities    for    harassing    the   American 
tux.ps  on  the.r  march,  and  the  passage  of  the  Arroyo 
Colorado,  ,f  disputed,  would  have  been  attended  with 
great  loss.     -  This  stream,"  says  General  Taylor,  « is 
a  salt  nver,  or  rather  lagoon,  nearly  one  hundred  ;ards 
broad  and  so  deep  as  barely  to  be  fordable.     It  would 
have  formed  a  serious  obstruction  to  our  march,  had  the 
e..emy  chosen  to  occupy  its  right  bank,  even  with  a  small 


*  House  of  Repreaentativos,  Exec.  Doc. 
.  10(). 

i  Letters  to  the  Adjutant  General,  Oct 
ml  1  '  ■    1S16. 

t  Letter  to  the  Adjutant  General,  March  21. 1846. 


p.  100.  '  196-lst  session,  29th  Congress- 

ana  I !"";i*'^  ^''^""^"'  ««"""••  ""'»''-  8th,  1845,  and  Fehrunry  4th 


JAMES    KNOX    rOLK. 


[1845-8. 


The  Mex  can  Minister,  Pena  y  i  ^"-Ij      '       .         ,  (• 

1,    not  even  ..nua,  to  act  under  an  ™pW  ™™- 
:r  General  TajU-  .a,  faen  k„o«n    »  l""  ^    ^   ,- 
1  ^  a,ri»tl  an,\  in  tl.o  actual  occupaucj  of  le mtoiy  Ij 
•      ,te  tol  tL  Nueces  ;  but  tU»  «»»  not  made  the  sub- 

Castillo  y  Lano«,  the  nuiustei  ol  ';'><»>'-' 
com;„u„feath>g  the  flnal  ,lete,,nn,at»,  »f  *    «-- 
>..f   ..U.Mro  that  the  occupation,  oi  tlie  coniciu 

refusal.        1  ''^^^'^*  ^  ^    ^^,^,,^  ^ho  intentions  ot 

t::rr:;:;r:e:"»"Va»dneartheele.eof*e 

;;n'  le"  M  S=  ng  e«,t  .ouUl  itself  co„,nit  no 
tof t-^r"  taaeknowle,l»i,,g  that  ,1.0  Un.ted 
ttlltd  «Uted  no  new  act  ef  that  eha„eter,  othe,- 

.     .  see  DipWtie  Corn.po.lcnce,  House  of  Ropresontatlvcs,  Exec.  Doc. 
196-lat  session,  29tU  CovgKis. 


[1845-8. 

in  a  confidential 
?n,  aud  in  an  ot- 
i  the  witluli-iAval 
Jruz,  previous  to 
X  his  government 
iin  implied   nien- 
n  to  be   at  Cov- 
y  of  territory  ly- 
not  made  the  sub- 
ortliy  of  mention, 
rrera  pretend  tliut 
)ry  was  one  of  the 
adell :  neither  did 
rede?,  ni  his  note 
,n  of  the  Mexican 
on,  or  the  contem- 
ns the  cause  of  the 
,ers    to   attack  the 
I  the  intentions  of 
icar  the  close  of  tho 
Lcxico,  that  he  de- 
manifesto,  declaring 
d  itself  commit  no 
i(T  that  the  United 
hat  character,  othcr- 
■ntioued. 

jvcry  movement  for 
the  United  States  as 
amatiou  of  the  23rd 

ieproscntatlves,  Exec.  Doc. 


1845-8.J 


MEXICAN    COMMISSIONS. 


259 


of  April,  1846,  declaring  that  the  war  had  been  com- 
menced, Paredes  referred  to  the  occupation  of  Corpus 
Christi,  the  appearance  of  the  naval  squadrons  in  the  Pa- 
cific and  the  Gulf  of  Mexico,  the  advance  to  the  Rio 
Grande,  and  the  blockade  of  the  river,  each  and  all,  as 
so  many  aggravations  of  the  original  cause  of  ofienc'e— 
the  annexation  of  Texas.     That  act  was  the  principal 
grievance,  and  the  others  but  so  many  incidents.     This 
idea  also  appears  to  have  been  entertained  by  the  Mexi- 
can commissioners,  Herrera,  Conto,  Villamil,  and  Atris- 
tam,  who  stated  expressly,  in  their  letter  to  Mr.  Trist,  on 
the  Gth  of  September,  1847,  that  the  war  was  «'  under- 
taken solely  on  account  of  tlie  territory  of  the  State  of 
Texas."* 

In  an  interview  with  a  staff  officer  belonging  to  the  ar- 
my of  General  Taylor,  shortly  after  the  battle  of  Buena 
\ista,  Santa  Anna,  better  disposed  to  keep  faith  in  this 
respect  than  his  countrymen,  intimated  that  the  Rio 
Grande  was  the  proper  boundary  of  Texas,  and  declared 
that  Mexico  could  say  nothing  of  peace,  while  the  Amer- 
icans remained  on  that  side  of  the  river,  f 

But  there  is  another  fact  having  reference  to  this  ques- 
tion, which  must  be  regarded  as  conclusive.  After  the 
treaty  of  Guadalupe  Hidalgo,  by  which  the  war  with 
Mexico  was  terminated,  was  concluded,  the  Mexican 
commissioners  addressed  a  communication  to  their  gov- 
ernment, in  which  they  say  that  "  the  intention  of  mak- 
ing the  Bravo  a  limit  has  been  announced  by  the  clearest 
signs  for  the  last  twelve  years  ;  and  it  would  have  beea 

*  Semite  Exec.  Doo.  20.-lst  session,  30th  Congress-p.  19 
t  Official  Dispatch.of  Santa  Anna,  February  27, 1847. 


36,0 


JAMES   KNOX  POLK. 


[1845-8. 


impossible,  at  the  present  day,  to  change  it.     After  tho 

'XZ  Sua  Jacu.o,  in  AfU,  1830,  tl^^t -as  t ho  tern- 

0  V  ^vhicU  .ve  stlpulatod  to  evaeuate,  at.d  ^vUlc  Mse  ac- 

:  ^:^    aid   evacuate,  by  ialling  back  on    Matan.o- 

I,   tias  place  was  afterwards  stauuncd  .hat  . 

led  the  Amy  of  tho  North;  and  though  i    ..  tu.o 
U^lHlon^u^d  incursions  have  be^^ 
elaJ^i^rasBexar,   .0  have   very   soc.   repeated 

le-win..    the    intermediate   space  absolutely    f  cc.        u 

Ute  General  Taylor  found  it  when    m  the  early 

p    t  of  last  year,  he  entered  there  by  order  of  las  go^- 

IL."     With  these  opinions  delibc^at^^ress. 

by  some  of  the  l>ighest  fuuct.onar.es  of  ^^^^^^J^ 
need  is  there  of  pursuing  the  avguvnent  la  .uppat 
:rle  daim  of  Texas  to  the  R.0  Grande  as  her  south- 

^1;;r:^Zsladmisslons,  direct  or  impUed,of  the 

"'  u     %;.,     .,ro   the   proclamations   and   dib- 

MoYwin    authorities,    aie    luc    ju^v/ 
Mcxican_  aui  /^nipudia,  and  Arista,  on  the 

CtlwG.  o^tS'^^io,.'  All.,,™  of  *e,e  gcn- 
3  °dc  toed  tut  tl,o  .av„„co  of  1,1,  »™y  ..,  .  bostJ» 
:Lc„t,  yet  tWuppcrcJ  to  differ  -*  -FC' 
L  proper  point  to  wUel,  tl>o  ,„vaa.ng  forces,  „.  tluj 

trolled!  "taW  1"=  ■'"""■"^  '°  "'""*  tta■^«''y- 
Ton      Mcj  .  announced,  ttoougU  hi,  roprCBO,,..t,vc,  t  . 
the  pa=4e  «f  'l"  Avrojo  Colorado  ^onld  be  rcgardec 
*  an  act%f  .ar;  Atnpudia  f  »■->  G?""',' tT. 
retire  bevond  the  Nueces  -,  and  Ansta  insisted,  that  the 
C„n«ing  Texas  gave  no  right  to  occupy  the  R.o  del 
Z."a'  attempting  to  confine  the  American  arm. 


[1845-8. 

TO  it.     After  tlio 
at  was  the  tcrri- 
uid  which  wc  ac- 
ck  on    Matanio- 
tiouL'd  what  was 
though  it  is  true 
jeen  made  there, 
soon   retreated, 
lutely    free.      lu 
iicii,  in  the  early 
order  of  his  gov- 
erately  expressed 
of  Mexico,  what 
vnent    in    support 
udc  as  her  south- 
er implied,  of  the 
.mations   and   dis- 
md  Arista,  on  the 
hree  of  these  gen- 
army  was  a  hostile 
;er  with  respect  to 
.ing  forces,  as  they 
ctend  their  occupa- 
reprcsentativc,  that 
would  be  regarded 
General  Taylor  to 
ta  insisted,  that  the 
)  occupy  the  Rio  del 
the  American  army 


1845—8.    AMERICAN    TROOPS    ORDEUED    TO    TEXAS.        2'^'' 

to  any  precise  limits.*     The  prefect  of  the  northern  dis- 
trict of  Tamaulipas,  Jones  Cardenas,  also  issued  his  pro- 
test, dated  at  Santa  Kita,  on  the  28d  of  March,  184G, 
against  the  occupation  of  any  portion  of  the  department ; 
but  it  must  be  remembered  that  the  head-quarters  of  his 
prefecture  wore  at  Matamoras,  and  it  is  doubtful  whether 
he  ever  exercised  authority  north  of  the  Rio  Grande. 
Resides,  General  Taylor  very  properly  regarded  him  as 
a  mere  tool  of  the  military  authorities  in  Matamoras,  and 
after  the  capture  of  tl.at  city  he  proved  himself  to  be  as 
corrupt  as  he  was  pusillanimous,  by  soliciting,  in  the 
humblest  terms,  to  be  eoiitinued  in  his  office. 

In  view  of  the  fjicts  which  have  been  detailed,  it  will 
not  appear  strange,  that  the  government  of  the  United 
States  adopted  tlie  Rio  Grande  as  the  boundary  of  Texas, 
or  that  the  civil  and  military  officers  of  Mexico,  in  gvery 
department  of  the  government,  repeatedly  admitted  that 
tlio  tract  between  that  river  and  the  Nueces  formed  part 
of  the  territory  usurped,  as  was  said,  by  the  Texans. 

Having  decided  the  question  of  boundary,  theoffiinsive 
attitude  of  Mexico  re(iuired,  in  the  opinion  of  Mr.  Polk 
and  his  cabinet,  that  the  territory  should  bo  occupied  by 
American  troops;  the  occupation  being  limited,  in  the 
first  place,  to  such  noints  as  had  long  been  under  the  ac- 
Ivnowledged  jurisdiction  of  the  Jaws  of  Texas.  Had 
friendly  relations  existed  with  Mexico,  she  might  justly 
have  complained  of  the  occupation  unless  evpry  effort  at 
negotiation   had  failed  ;  but  as  all  intercourse  with  her 

*  Sctf  jrojia's  proclamati.m,  dated  March  ISth,  1846 ;  General  Taylor's 
letter,  Marel.  21st ;  A,np,.,lia',  dispnteh,  April  12lh  ;  and  Arista's  procla- 
mation  to  the  foreiguera  in  the  American  army,  April  20tb. 


262 


JAMES   KNOX    POLK. 


[1815-8. 


tivoly  demanded  b,  »  due  regard  tor  tb     u.m 

not  to  molest  your  people  oi   ^    ^J  ^^^^^  f,,.f  Ue.l  our 

'^y  ""''  ?.'    ,      r..noval  Tavlor,  avI.o  l.nd  l.cou  postod  at 

Accordingly,  Cxc^.cial  Aayi    ,  .., eonsiderablc 

Fort  Jesup,smce  the  spring  of  18-14  J^^^  ^^^  .^^ 

body  of  troops,  >vaB  ordered  to  -  '^^>^;^  J'  ,,^^^  ,,teot 
Texas,  in  such  a  manner  as  .ould  -  bio     n  X 

the  territory  between  the  ^"^^  J^^  ^1  Invest  of  the 
and  to  take  position  ..th  a  P-^^^^  ^^^  ^^.en  under 
former  nver.    Inco   P  ,  ^,    ,„,  p„tbis  eo.»- 

„,e  direction  0  M'-P*°™  „,,  ^„„,l,  rf  A..S.«., 
Tit-lTernV-rlUon  b.V.g  been  .^^ 


[1845-8. 

irse  ^^  us  iinpcva- 
c  national  honor 
y  of  the  federal 
ying  the  tcrrito- 
^0  have  ever  boon 
y  for  the  ailjust- 
1  you  have  AvitU- 
intercourse  with 
vry  for  ouvsolvos, 
)p8,  utider  oreUrri 
)sscssion9,  lest  it 
;  had  forfeited  our 
exercising  author- 

nd  been  posti'd  at 
ath  a  considerable 
I  his  command  in 
,lc  him  to  protect 
the  llio  Grande, 
f  them  west  of  tbo 
orders,  given  under 
aylor  put  his  coni- 
month  of  Au^nist, 
avingbecn  aeeejii- 
ention,— he  landed 
hristi,  west  of  tli'> 
n  encampment,  and 
ng  his  men,  in  order 
aid  be  required.  He 
f  property,  and  uo\. 
leuts  east  of  the  ilw 


1S40-8.J    REVEWAL  OP  DIPLOMATIC  INTERCOURSE.      263 

Grande.  These  instructions  were  carefully  observed  bv 
the  "  army  of  occupation,"  which  was  reinforced,  until  it 
on.npnsed  n.ore  than  half  of  the  entire  army  of  the 
Lii.tod  States.  If  an  attack  was  tlu-eatened,  and  his 
conunand  appeared  to  be  in  dan-er,  General  Taylor  w,s 
further  authorised,  to  call  upon  the  governors  of  the 
iieio;libornij,'  states  for  volunteers. 

Meanwhile  the  Mexican  government  was  not  idle    Ad 
I'.'nngto  their  declaration  that  war  existed,  and  to  the 
deternnnatu.n  of  n.vading  Texas  expressed  by  President 
llerrera,. Hurts  were  ma.le  to  increase  the  army,  and  to 
provide  the  means  for  carrying  on  the  war.     The  embar- 
rassed condition  of  the  Hnanc.s  prevented  the  immediate 
ecomphs  nnent  of  the  wishes  of  the  government,  although 
^.oner.   Arista  was  ordered  from  Monterey  to  Matamo- 
-,  la  t,;o  njontli  ot  August,  with  a  force  of  l,-,00  men 
mnlorce  the  troops  already  in  that  quarter,  then  abouJ 
^00  .trong.     Later  in  the  season,  between  eight  and  nine 
!.ou.and  men  wero  assembled  at  San  Luis  Potosi,  un.ler 
General  Paredes,  then  in  command  of  the  army  of  the 

While  matters  were  in  this  position,  and  the  scales  of  war 
and  peace  Inmg  at  an  even  poise,  information  was  received 
I .)  the  Ainerican  administration,  from  Mexico,  which  ren 
dered   it  Ingldy  probable  that  the  government  of  that' 
conn  ry  was  willing  to  resume  her  fotmer  relation'  ^     ' 

0  United  States.     The  American  government  cheerr. 
y       k  the  nnt.at.ve  in  renewing  their  intercourse,  in 

t •  that  It  m.ght  not  be  said  they  were  loth  to  reei;ro- 
^  e  any  f„enclly  feelings  understood  to  exist.  Mr. 
i^lack,  tlie  American  consul  in  the  city  of  Mexico,  was 


264 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1845-8. 


therefore  instructed    by   Mr.    nuclmnan,  to     a';oertaiu 
whether  the  Mexican  government  would  receive  an  envoy, 
"  intruste«i  with  full  power  to  adjust  nil  the  questions  in 
dispute  between  the  two  {rovernnients  ;"  and  if  the  reply 
to  his  inquiry  should  be  in  the  allirniative,  ho  was   in- 
formed that  "  such  an  envoy"  would  be   "immediately 
dispatched  to  Mexico."*     A  confidential  interview  took 
place  between  Mr.  IJhvck  and  Pef.a  y  Pef.a,  the  Mexican 
minister  of  foreign  relations,  in  which  the  substance  of 
the  dispatch  received  from  his  government   was   made 
known  by  the  American   Consul ;  and  on  the   1.3th  of 
October,  ho  addressed   an  ollieial  note  to  the  Mexican 
minister,  communicating  the  instructions  he  had  received, 
in  the  precise  terms  of  the  letter  of  Mr.  Buchanan,  as 
before  quoted.f     On  the  loth  of  October,  Pefla  y  Pefia 
informed  Mr.  lilack,  in  wvitn.g,  that  his  government  was 
"  disposed   to  receive    the  conmiissioner  of  the  United 
States,"  who  might  come  "  with   fidl  powers  from  liis 
government  to  settle  the   present  dispute  in  a  peaceful, 
reasonable,  and  honorable  manner."J 

As  it  has  often  been  questioned,  whether  the  Mexican 
government  consented  to  receive  a  minister,  eo  nomine, 
and  as  an  American  historian  has  conceded  the  point  in 
their  favor,§  it  may  be  well  to  inquire  carefully  what  wa-! 
in  fact  proposed  on  the  one  hand,  and  what  was  accepted 
on  the  other.    'Mr.  Black  stated  distinctly,  that  hia 

•  House  of  RepresentatiTes,  Exec.  Doc.  60-lst  session  30th  Congress- 

p.  12. 

tlbid.,  p.  14. 

%  Ibid.,  p.  16. 

§  Ripley's  W»r  with  Mexico,  vol  i.  p.  6b. 


■i^mitiiimmmf 


[1845-8. 

n,  to     a'ioertaiu 
receivo  an  envoy, 
the  (jnostions  in 
and  if  the  reply 
i,tivc,  ho  was   in- 
)i!   "  imniodiately 
al  interview  took 
;r«a,  the  Mexican 
the  substance  of 
luient   was   made 
I  on  tlio   13th  of 
i  to  the  Mexican 
IS  lie  liad  received, 
VIr.  Buchanan,  as 
>ber,  Pefia  y  Pofia 
is  government  was 
or  of  the  United 
powers  from  his 
111  to  in  a  peaceful, 

ether  the  Mexican 
inister,  eo  nomine, 
iceded  the  point  in 
carefully  what  wa-< 
what  was  accepted 
listinctly,  that  his 

t  session  30th  Congress— 


1845-8. J     coNsnxT  to  urcr.ivE  a  mixistkr. 


265 


'.'nvernment  would  dispatch  to  Mexico  an  envoy  clothed 
w  itli  full  power  to  settle  nil  disputes.  Pefia  y  Pefia  did 
not  reply,  that  Mexico  would  receive  no  such  minister  or 
envoy  ;  hut  he  said,  that  she  would  receive  (he  commis- 
sioner coming  with  full  powers  to  settle  the  j)resent  dis- 
pute. Carefully  worded  as  was  the  note  of  the  Mexican 
minister,  the  inference  was  irresistible  that  his  govern- 
ment consented  to  receive  the  identical  minister,  com- 
missioner, or  envoy,  whatever  he  might  be  styled,  pro- 
posed to  be  sent  by  Mr.  Buchanan,  as  the  cabinet  officer 
of  President  Polk.  If  this  is  not  so,  then  the  note  of 
Pofia  y  Pefia  had  a  double  tniMining,  which  subsequent 
events  rendered  probnblc ;  but  the  United  States  were 
justified  in  construing  it  in  a  manner  consistent  with  fair 
and  honorable  diplomacy.  No  argument  can  overturn 
tliis  position, — no  sophistry  relieve  the  Mexican  govern- 
ment from  the  imputation  of  bad  faith  in  this  correspond- 
ence.* 

Jealousy,  suspicion,  and  distrust,  were  manifested  by 
all  classes  and  parties  in  Mexico,  at  the  time  when  the 
proposition  to  resume  her  diplomatic  relations  with  the 
United  States  was  received  and  accepted.  The  arrange- 
ment, however,  was  approved  by  the  Mexican  Congress 
in  secret  session ;  the  American  naval  force  off  Vera  Cruz 

*  An  examination  of  the  original  communication  of  fla  y  Pefia  to  Mr. 
J'.lack,  will  fully  conBrm  the  position  aliovo  taken.  The  following  extract 
lias  reference  to  tho  consent  to  receive  a  minister:  "  £«  contcstanon  debo 
dicir/f,  (jitc  a  I'tmy  <ie  que  la  Nacion,  Mi-xkana  cstd  f^ravcmcnte  ofcndida 
jmr  la  dc  Ins  Kstados  Unidos,  en  razon  dc  los  hedim  comitidcs  par  isld  en  el 
Vcpartamcnto  dc  Tijns,  propria  de  aqwlla,  mi  Gobierno  estd  dirpuertn  a 
rccibir  al  cnmisioitado  que  de  los  Estados  Unidoa  vcnga  a  esta  Capital  con 
picnos podacs  dc  stt  Gubierno  para  arreglar  de  uii  modo  pacifico,  razonabU 
y  derorrmo,  la  coyxticnda  presente." 

12 


It 


•266 


JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


[l84o-8. 


.yft8  witlidrawn;  everything  wore  a  prom.s.ng  aspect; 
«ad  to>va»-a  the  close  of  October,  the  Mexicua  Minister 
of  Foreign  Relations  expressed  Boine  anxiety  to  know 
-,vheu  the  envoy  from  the  United  States  might  be  expect- 
ed     Tlu!  American  Executive,  immediately  upon  the 
receipt  of  Mr.  Black's  dispatches,  appointed  Mr.  John 
Slidell  as  Minister  Plenipotentiary  to  the  Government  ot 
Mexico,  and  gave  him  full  instructions  and  powers  to 
settle  and  adjust  all  differences  between  the  two  coun- 
tries  *     Mr.  Slidell  arrived  at  Vera  Cruz  on  the  :.<  Itli  ot 
November,  and  hastened  forward,  immediately,  to  the  city 
of  Mexico.    At  Pucblu  ho  was  met  by  Mr.  Black,  who 
informed  him  that  the  Mexican  government  were  alarn.ea 
by  his  arrival  at  such  an  inopportune  moment,  as  they 
had  not  expected  him  until  the  1st  of  January,  and  mat- 
ters had  not  been  prepared  for  his  reception-     Ihe  hrst 
intimation  received  by  Mr.  Black,  that  the  time  of  tho 
arrival  of  an  envoy  was  deemed  of  any  importance,  .vas  on 
tho  3rd  of  December,  in  an  interview  with  Pena  y  Pena,  . 
and  he  had  hastened  from  Mexico  to  meet  Mr.  Slulel , 
and  communicate  with  him  before  he  reached  the  capital 
It  appeared  that  the  administration  of  Herrera  had 
been  constantly  growing  weaker  and  weaker.     Instead 
.  of  seizing,  into  his  own  hands,  the  means  which  migh 
bave  enabled  him  to  control  the  turbulent  governmen 
over  whieh  he  was  placed,  ho  suffered  them  to  be  used 
for  his  own  destruction.     Finesse  and  management  were 
resorted  to,  >vhen  nothing  could  have  so  much  strength- 
ened  his  administration,  as  promptitude,  firmness,  and 
decision.     Early  in  November  he  began  to  be  seriously 

.  S«o  letter  of  instruction,  to  Mr.  SlidoU.  November  10,  l&t5 


fl84.V8. 

smising  aspect; 
cxiciiii  Minisitcr 
inxiety  to  know 
inij^ht  bo  expc'Ct- 
[iately  upon  tho 
oiutcd  Mr.  John 

0  Govcriniient  of 
,9  and  powers  to 
n  the  tw(»  coun- 
uzon  the  oOth  of 
lately,  to  the  city 
r  Mr.  Black,  who 
lent  wore  alarmed 

moment,  as  they 
anuary,  and  niat- 
>ption.  The  first 
t  the  time  of  tho 
mportance,  -was  on 
fith  Pena  y  Pcna, 
meet  Mr.  Slidell, 
jached  the  capital. 
)n  of  Herrcra  had 

weaker.  Instead 
leans  which  might 
t)ulent  government 
il  them  to  be  used 

1  management  were 
so  much  strength- 
ude,  firmness,  and 
gan  to  be  seriously 

SJovember  10,  l&tS 


184or8.J         nr.voi,T:TifiN.\iiv  i'U().ir.rrM. 


21^7 


alarmed;  tho  fidelity  of  Parades  was  suspocted  ;  and 
orders  were  issued  f )r  him  to  hn-ak  up  lils  cautdiimiiil  at 
Sail  Luis,  and  to  sratli'r  ihe  troops  in  (lill'i'rfut  parts  >if 
tlu«  country,  llcrn'ra  and  his  miui^tirs  were  prohably 
wvll  disposed  to  ilie  Ignited  States,  liiit  their  indecision 
\Nas  followed  by  its  lr>,'itimate  rc-ulls ;  ami  when  Mr. 
Slidell  presciil"d  liini^clf,  tlicV  alt'.'UipU'd  to  Ixil.-L.r  up 
llio  tottering  administration,  by  a.  nt'a-al  to  r.'ciive  liim. 
'i'lio  arrival  of  an  envoy  from  tlu'  I  nitv  1  Statfs  v,as  a 
matter  that  it  was  iinpossihl"-  to  concral,  alur  lie  had 
onco  landed  ;  tiie  evil  whieli  mi;;lil  ea.-ily  have  bri'n  prc- 
viMiti'il,  if  the  Mexican  ;^overnmeut  liad  i>ut  intimated  the 
nefessity  for  delay,  was  past  all  r<'nieily ;  and  Mr.  Sli- 
dell  concluded  to  contimie  his  journey  to  Mexico. 

The  fact  that  the  ailministration  ul'  llerrera  had  con- 
sented to  receive  a  minister,  was  known  Ion;,'  previous  to 
the  arrival  of  Mr.  Slidell,  allliou;^h  the  pronunciuiiKiilo 
of  Paredes  a;^ah\st  tho  ;^overiiment,  issued  at  San  Luis, 
(lid  not  ai)pear  until  the  loth  of  December.  For  several 
weeks  before  Mr.  Slidell  reached  Mexico,  tho  monarchists 
and  centralists  in  the  capital  were  very  busily  en<^a;^ed  in 
ijreparing  the  plan  of  their  anticipated  movement.  An 
outbreak  was  regarded  as  a  matter  of  certainty,  uidess 
the  administration  took  measures  to  prevent  it.  On  tho 
second  day  after  his  arrival  in  Mexico,  Mr.  Slidell  ad- 
dressed a  letter  to  the  Mexican  Minister,  dated  the  «tli 
of  December,  informing  him  of  his  arrival,  and  desiring 
to  know  when  his  credentials  would  be  received  and  him- 
self accredited.  No  answer  was  returned  to  this  comniu- 
nicat,ion;  and  in  two  private  interviews  between  Mr. 
Black  and  Pena  y  Pena,  held  on  the  8th  and  13th  of 


208 


3AMF.8   KNOX    POI.K. 


[I8I0-H. 


1^        1..,.  tl...  I'lttcr  oxl.iV.tcd  m  many  syniptnnis  of  ft 

j:;:;;;::':::::!::'::^---r^ 

1  .1  .,  .1  .-  M.'xu-an  .nnvn.nuMtt  l.aA  conscnto.l  to 

iitf  •     lllia  t  1;  t    tilt"    .MiAi>'i"n  ,  1    1-      ,  »,, 

to.l  bv  llevrcva  l.huself,  in  a  lottc-r  written  to  S<  n..i  i 
I  CO  .n—  of  foroi,..  relations,  on  the  25th  of  August, 
trr*  '  hVbaa  faith  of  the  Mexican  a.bniuistnvt.on  .. 
this  transnction  ^vas  subsequently  exhibite.l  in  a  most  un- 
r  liM.t  by  the  publication  of  a  com.nun.catu.n 
"'";  t^^  ciil  of  government  by  Pena  y  Pena,  a. 
n.aao  to  the  council       ^  December,  at  the  very 

his  official  capacity,  on  the  Uthot  ^^^f^]"''*^; 
time  ^vhe^  he  was  professing?  so  much  fric.ash  p  to^^.u. 
Mr      ick  and  Mr.  Slidell,  in  which  the  refusal  to  receive 
fbrultter  was  recommended  in  positive  and  expre. 

»  Senate  Exec.  Doo.  1-Ut  session  3()th  Congrcss-p.  41. 


'  symptoniH  of  ft 
niiH  of  tlio  lu-oj)- 
id  accciitcd,  tliiit 
')tliof  till- iiioiitli, 
■t  11  reply  to  tliat 

(luy  lif  ^vl»H  ill- 
)rcn  tlill'K'ulties  ill 
(■on  fouiiil  iiecps- 
lUMit  I'll-  tlii'lr  tl'' 
I  wen' — tliiit  Ml* 
\  tlio  siiiictioii  of 
•iiud  by  tlu-  S.'U- 
;  linA  cotisciitc'l  to 
lostion  n-lntiii;^  to 

Thesf  olijirti.ms 

lie  only   ar;iniHciit 

Piivcdcs   mid  irw 

ntcd   to   roccivc   a 

or  opening  now  w- 

iiivolviHl,iiHndi!iit- 

rittcn  to  Scfior  Pa- 
thc  25111  of  August, 
tn  admiiiistnition  ii. 
ibitcd  in  a  most  un- 
,f  a  communication 
by  Pcna  y  P>'»Hi  '•' 
L'ccmber,  at  the  very 
I  friendship  towards 
the  refusal  to  receive 
positive  and  express 

li  Congress— p.  41- 


184.'-8.J      HKFISAI,    TO    UECKIVK    MR.    SMPKM.. 


2(59 


terms.*  'I'lic  ih'libcrations  of  tlio  coiineil,  tliou<;li  nomi- 
nally H««{M-ct,  were  matters  of  piiblie  notoriety.  Its  inem- 
bcrs  were  well    kin-wh    to   lio   decidedly  opposed  to  tlio 

reception,  and,  on  the  iSlli  of  Di mlxT,  their  dictaincn 

advisin;^  a;!ninst  it  was  made  public.  Inrnrinatinii  of  this 
fiiel,  and  of  the  evident  want  of  frankness  and -candor  on 
the  part  of  llerreia's  administration,  in  their  intercourse 
with  iiini,  was  communicated  by  Mr.  Slididl,  on  the  saiiK* 
dav,  to  the  e;oveninient  of  the  United  States. f 

Mr.  Slidell  ad'lressed  two  lettirs  to  I'lna  y  Pefia,  ou 
the  lilth  and  "JUth  of  December,  desiring'  to  be  informed  as 
to  tiie  dilliculties  in  tiie  way  of  his  reception,  in  order  to 
remove  them,  if  in  the  power  of  iiiinself  or  of  liis  govern- 
ment.    In  reply  to  the  second  note,  the  positive  deter- 
mination  of  the  Mexican  government  not  to  rcceivo  him 
was  coinninnicated.     Tiiis  decision  did  not  save  the  ad- 
ministration of  llerrera  from  th(?  eonse(jMeiices  of  its  own 
weakness  and  jiiisilhinimity.     Its  want  of  firmness  and 
decision  was  so  manifest,  that  the  military  in  the  cajiital 
pronounc(»l  in  favor  of  the  revolutionists  on  tlu'  2!Uh  of 
December,  and  on  the  following  day  llerrera  resigned  the 
presidency,  without   making  a  single  effort  to  ([uell  the 
outbreak.     The  tide  had  been  turned  ibr  months,  and  ho 
lacke'i  the  courage  to  stem  it  for  an  instant.     Paredea 
entered  the  city  with  his  troops,  in  triumph,  on  the  2(1 
of  Janu.iry,  and  on  the  next  day  was  chosen  provisional 
President.     Soon  after  ho  was  elected  to  the  same  ollice, 
by  the  Constituent  Congress,     lie  had  come  into  power 
for  the  avowed  purpose  of  putting  an  end  to  all  negotia- 

•  House  of  Representatives  Exec.  Doo.— 1st  «esaion29tli  Congress— p.  -19. 
t  Ibid,  p.  18,  et  scq. 


B 


270 


JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


11845-8. 


f,r,«ly  m  Us  pl»«  vcml  uHl  1»'°  '"'^  „f  ,,„tii;ty 

to  a  il.stM.co,  Mid  110  elevation,  tUo 

„o,-c  naoptd.     I.,  a  S1.0V    "">«;'  „„,j„|  ^ 

o„»bli,l.me.,t  of  a  .nonarcl.,  ...  McM«  ^:;  7-„,^,„,„;, 
somo  of  1.1s   most  l,.Uma.c  fr.c.J^    ,^  '"^-..A.g  tl.o 

;rsir:f;:.-^.ct««nt,.i^.c. - 

-1  0.-  Britain  ^^ -^  ^r:;  f X  Lo'^e  powo.-- 

note,  on  tl,o  1st  of  Marcl.,  to    l.e  M  ^^  ^,_^ 

,  ,elatlo„s,  Castillo  y  '-«'    '''«', ,",'  ^\„„,  tl.o 

.abjoct  of  Lis  '»P''?";2l  .Cato.l.oiucs.ion. 

„„  was  '"f;-  ;■"«>;'(,;  1 ;::;:  received »» .. 

Avritten  on  the  12tli,  tliat  le  cou 

ros-ulent  minister,  and  similar  reason    .me  g^en 

,,,,,„!  to  those  previously  -P^^^^^^.^X  to  nogo- 

.  .  see  Diplomatic  Co.e.ponden.e.  House  of  Representatives.  Boo,  196- 
Ijt  session  29th  Congress. 


11845-8. 

cUirnig  and  carry- 
0  cstablisli  lumsi'lf 

0  remove  the  avniy 
iisuves  of  hostility 
[■  his  elevation,  the 
;o  was  supgostcd  by 

This  movement 
;d  his  obtaining  the 
icrcase  of  the  army. 
;n  the  United  State:^ 
id  he  was  quite  will- 

1  with  a  more  powev- 
opo  with  their  forces 

n  February,  to  await 
y  contest  in  Mexico, 
t  had  been  establish- 
^uiet,  he  addressed  a 
ew  minister  of  foreign 
Y  his  attention  to  the 
'ucsting  to  know   the 
regard  to  the  question. 

2  note  of  the  minister, 
not  be  received  as  a 
ans  were  given  for  the 
sed  by  Pena  y  Pona. 
mof  the  offer  to  nego- 
ecessary  passports,and, 
(1  to  the  United  States.* 

of  Representatives,  Doo,  196- 


184r,-8.J 


Ills    COirP.fiK    CKNSURET). 


271 


Tlie  Mexican  government  immediately  commenced  mn,1<ing 
jircparations  for  war.  Uoans  were  obtained,  arms  and 
supphes  provided  for  tlie  army,  and  its  numericnl  Torco 
augmented  ;  and  on  the  4th  of  April,  positive  orders  were 
issued  to  the  officers  commanding  on  the  northern  frontier, 
to  attack  the  American  troops. 

In  the  meantime,  the  American  administration  had  not 
been  unmindful  of  the  duty  imposed  upon  them.  The 
dispatch  of  Mr.  Slidell  exposing  the  duplicity  and  bad 
fuirh  of  the  Mexican  government,  and  announcing  the 
(Ucta.nen  of  the  council,  was  received  on  tlie  12tli  of 
January,  184G,  and  on  the  following  day  General  Taylor 
was  instructed  to  advance  and  occupy  with  his  troops  po- 
sitions on  or  near  the  east  haniv  of  the  Rio  Grande,  as 
f?oon  as  it  could  conveniently  be  done.  Ho  was  further 
directed  to  observe  his  former  orders  ;  to  commit  no  act 
of  hostility  or  aggression ;  not  to  enforce  the  common 
rlaiit  of  navigating  the  river,  or  to  ti'cat  Mexico  as  an 
enemy  unless  slie  assumed  that  character  ;  but  to  repel 
anv  attack,  and  if  hostilities  were  commenced  by  the 
Mexican  troops,  to  adopt  such  offensive  measures  as  lie 
might  deem  advisable. 

In  the  hea^  of  party  strife,  it  was  natural  that  the  con- 
duct of  President  Polk  in  directing  the  advance  of  Gene- 
ral Taylor  to  tlie  Rio  Grande,  should  be  severely  critiscd 
;nid  c;Misurcd  by  the  opposition.  The  same  thing  was 
witnessed  during  tlie  ailniinistration  of  Mr.  jNIadison,  with 
reference  to  the  war  of  1S1 2;  he  was  maligned  and  ca- 
hunniated  by  his  political  opponents,  but  posterity  has 
nicted  out  justice  ti.  him  and  to  them.  The  memory  of 
Madison    is  enshrined  in  the  hearts  and  affections  of  the 


[] 


I 


jMj-yijiUjSji^ 


272 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1845-8. 


American  people,  while  the  federalism  of  his  day  has  de- 
scended to  the  tomb  of  tlie  Capulets.  And  will  not  the 
historiiiu  of  a  succeeding  age  discover  a  parallel  to  this 
in  the  admini.stration  of  James  K.  Polk  1  Political  oppo- 
uents,  with  minds  heated  by  party  collisions  and  animos- 
ities, and  warped  by  prejudice,  represented  him  as  an- 
other CiXisar, 

"  riinging  for  revenge, 
With  Ate  by  hu^didc,  conio  hot  from  hell," 

and  Uttering  her  fell  cry  of  "  havoc,"  as  ho  unleashed  the 
dogs  of  war. 

But  attacks  of  this  character  passed  him  by  unheeded. 
Strong  in  the  consciousness  of  right,  he  desired  only  to 
discharge  what  he  conceived  to  be  his  duty.  He  was  a 
man  of  peace.  The  suffering  and  wretchedness,  the 
misery  and  woe,  which  war  produced,  he  always  deplor- 
ed ;  but  no  reilcctions  that  ho  was  responsible  in  anght 
for  increasing  its  horrors  ever  occasioned  him  a  moment's 
pain,  or  disturbed  the  calm  serenity  of  his  dying  hour. 
He  would,  indeed,  have  been  recreant  to  duty, — false  to 
himself  and  false  to  his  country, — bad  ho  not  ordered  the 
advance  to  the  Rio  Grande.  It  was  the  policy  of  wis- 
dom—the policy  of  right — the  policy  of  justice. 

It  has  been  said,  tliat  General  Taylor  ought  to  have 
remained  in  his  position  at  Corpus  C  iristi,  on  the  de- 
fence, and  the  ports  of  Mexico  been  blockaded  ;  and  thus 
an  artunl  oollisinn  would  have  been  avoided;  but  this 
ar'ninient  is  put  fortli  ni  entire  ignorance  of  the  imprac- 
tieability  of  the  Spanish  character.  Had  this  policy 
been  adopted,  the  question  would  either  never  have  been 
settled,  and  the  United  States  compelled  to  maintain  an 


■■itM^wn  !mm^^<tmi<i,m 


[1845-8. 

liis  day  has  tle- 
And  will  not  the 
I  parallel  to  this 
!  Political  oppo- 
ions  and  aniiuos- 
iitod  him  as  au- 


holl," 

he  unleashed  the 

lim  by  unheeded. 
)  desired  only  to 
iitv.  He  was  a 
retchedness,  the 
3  always  deplor- 
onsible  in  anglit 
1  him  a  moment's 
his  dying  hour. 
3  duty, — false  to 
,e  not  ordered  the 
the  policy  of  Avis- 
justice. 

lor  ought  to  have 
risti,  on  the  de- 
;kaded  ;  and  thus 
voided ;  but  this 
■(>  of  the  imprac- 
llad  this  policy 
never  have  been 
1  to  maintain  an 


1815-8. J       COMMENCEMENT.  OF    HOSTILITIES. 


273 


army  in  the  field,  and  a  naval  force  in  the  Gulf  of  Mexi- 
co, at  great  expense,  for  an  indefinite  period  of  time ;  or 
else  hosiilities  would  soon  have  ensued,  and  in  the  latter 
event,  the  American  army  would  have  been  obliged  to 
traverse  the  weary  route  between  Corpus  Christi  and  the 
Rio  Grande  before  being  able  to  strike  an  effective  blow. 
The  history  of  Mexico  furnishes  a  case  in  point.  She 
laughed  to  scorn  the  tri-color  of  France  when  her  har- 
bors Avere  blockaded,  but  soon  repented  of  her  folly,  when 
the  walls  of  San  Juan  do  Ulua  came  tumbling  down  into 
the  roadstead  of  Vera  Cruz. 

In  fulfilment  of  his  instructions,  General  Taylor  broke 
up  his  encampment  at  Corpus  Caristi  on  the  8th  day  of 
March,  IS  10,  and  commenced  moving  his  army  in  the 
direction  of  the  Rio  Grand.'.  No  opposition  was  offered 
to  his  march,  but  on  his  approach  to  Point  Isabel,  the 
buildir;rs  of  tlie  settlement  there,  called  Frontonc,  Avere 
set  on  five,  under  the  orders  of  Mexican  officers.  This 
lie  viewed  as  an  act  of  Avar  ;  and  properly  so,  because  it 
Avas  the  destruction  of  property  on  territory  the  title  to 
Avhich  Avas  in  dispute.  He  determined,  hoAvever,  to  pre- 
serve the  peaceful  attitude  Avhich  he  had  hitherto  main- 
taiued,  and  leaving  a  small  body  of  troops  at  the  point, 
Avhero  he  established  his  principul  (h'pot  of  stores,  ho 
continued  his  march  Avith  the  main  army  till  he  readied  the 
bank  of  the  Rio  Grand(^  opposite  Matamoras.  He  then 
dispatched  one  of  his  officers.  General  Worth,  across  the 
river,  as  the  bearer  of  a  communication  to  General  Me- 
jia,  the  officer  in  command  at  Matamoras,  informing  him 
of  the  desire  of  the  American  cunnnander  for  amicable 
relations,  of  his  intention  not  to  commit  any  acts  of  hos- 
12* 


!i 


fe^y!?-Hasi-.[v!j->i'j^jJ!' ' 


sas 


274 


JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


[1845-8. 


tilitv  unless  ho  was  attucko.1,  and  of  his  wiirm^ncss  to 
]Jo  the  port  of  Bray.os  Santiago  open  to  th.  citizens  of 
Matanioras  until  the  hounckry  (lucstion  should  be  dehn- 

itely  settled.  ,  ,    -i-         u 

General  Worth  was  received  by  General  la  Vega,  tlie 
second  in  command,  who  refused  to  convoy  the  communi- 
cation of  General  TayU.r  to  General  Mejuv._    General 
Worth  then  re^iuested  permission  to  communicate  vvitU 
the  American  Consul  at  Matamoras.     This  was  also  re- 
fused, whereupon  he  returne.l  to  General  Taylor  s  posi- 
tion,   and  informed  him   of  the   result  of  his   mission. 
Orders  were  now  given  to  encamp,  and  the  American  flag 
^vas  for  the  first  time  planted  on  the  shores  of  the  Kio 
Grande.     For  the  security  of  liis  command,  and  not  in  a 
.pirit  of  defiance.  General  Taylor  fortified  his  position, 
und  placed  his  artillery  so  as  to  cover  the   appmiehes 
Everything  coutinued  peaceful  until  the  arrival  of  General 
Ampudia  at  Matamoras,  on  theUthof  Aprd  I84b,  with 
.  reinforcement  of  about  twenty-five  hundred  men.     Ho 
immediately  assumed  the  command,  and  required  Genei-al 
Taylor  to  abandon  his  position,  and  to  retire  beyond  the 
Nueces,  or  the  war  would  be  commenced.    General  I  aylor 
declined  to  discuss  the  international  (piestion,  an.l  refused 

to  retire.  ,      .       ■.         ^i    „ 

But  the  existence  of  a  state  of  war  having  been  thus 
a„nouuC(,.d,  General  Taylor  directed  the  mouth  of  the 
Rio  Grande  to  be  blockaded  by  the  American  nava  com- 
mander at  Brazos  Santiago,  who  had  received  orders  to 
cooperate  with  him.  No  further  offensive  measures  were 
at  the  time  adopted  by  him,  although  outrages  perpetra- 
ted by  the  Mexican  irregular  troops,  or  ranckeros,  vrere 


[1845-8. 

lis  Avillln^ncss  to 
to  the  citizens  of 
I  slioukl  be  delin- 

leral  la  Vogii,  the 
vey  the  communi- 

Mcjia,  General 
jommunicato  witli 
This  was  also  rc- 
ral  Taylor's  posi- 
t  of  his   mission. 

the  American  flag 
shores  of  the  Kio 
nand,  and  not  in  a 
tificd  his  position, 
r  the   approaches. 
>  arrival  of  General 
f  April,  1846,  with 
Imndred  men.     Ho 
id  reriuired  General 
)  retire  beyond  the 
d.    General  Taylor 
iicstion,  and  refused 

[•  having  been  thus 
,  the  mouth  of  the 
merican  naval  com- 
(i  received  orders  to 
iisive  measures  were 
outrages,  perpetra- 
or  ranchiros,  vrere 


1845-8.] 


INOIDENXa    OF   THE    WAR. 


m 


of  almost  daily  occurrence.  At  length  the  Mexican  army, 
now  under  the  command  of  General  Arista,  crossed  the  Rio 
Grande  in  force,  intending  to  surround  General  Taylor's 
position,  and  compel  hira  to  capitulate.  But  he  and  his 
coMiers,  like  the  garrison  of  Cambray,  though  they  did 
not  know  how  to  surrender,  knew  very  well "  how  to  fight." 

<  )u  the  24th  of  April,  a  body  of  Mexican  lancers  coui- 
niittud  an  unprovoked  attack  upon  a  party  c»f  American 
troops  sent  out  to  observe  the  movements  of  Arista.  The 
Congress  of  the  United  States  was  at  this  time  in  session, 
and  on  receiving  the  intelligence  of  the  hostile  encounter, 
the  President  communicated  it  to  them  in  a  special  mes- 
sage, f  n  the  11th  day  of  May,  with  the  recommendation 
that  the  most  energetic  measures  should  bo  adopted.  An 
act  was  therefore  passed,  on  the  loth  inst.,  with  great 
unanimity, — there  being  but  fourteen  negative  votes  in 
the  House  of  Representatives,  and  but  two  in  the  Senate, 
— declaring  that  a  state  of  war  existed  between  the  two 
countries,  "  by  the  act  of  the  republic  of  Mexico."*  Pro- 
vision was  also  m'-  le  in  tlie  law  for  filling  up  the  regu- 
lar regiments ;  the  President  was  authorized  to  accept  the 
services  of  fifty  thousand  volunteers ;  and  the  sum  of  ten 
millions  of  dollars  was  appropriated  to  carry  on  the  war. 

Tlie  utmost  activity  now  prevailed  in  all  the  executive 
departments  at  Washington.  Additional  duties  were  im- 
posed upon  the  President,  but  they  were  performed  with 
promptitude.  While  the  Avar  continued,  he  read  all  the 
dispatches  of  importance,  and  often  prepared  or  dictated 

*  This  clause,  which  was  contained  in  the  preamble,  was  not  approvec? 
by  the  Whig  members.  They  endeavored  to  have  the  preamble  stricken 
«ut,  but  when  the  motion  failed,  most  oT  them  voted  for  th«  act. 


'  ! 


imWWMIfSSSBWa^'-'!!^" 


^W'^^- 


^|Ki,t^rS.T 


^V^^^^  ' 


27G 


JAMES   KNOX   roLK. 


[1845-8. 


tl.e  orders  and  instract  ons.     ^^  ".-;  f^^^^^.,^^,,^  j,,  ,Uc 

nearly  twenty  tl^ousaud  ...  --  ^-!;^;,,^  ,,^,,  ,,.,,. 

ly  rHuforccl,  ai.a  >.t  <"  „  .  (j,„„,,l.  Wool 

"i "■■'■"'"•';;.:L:  0  S  --. «""™'  •'■»-^'"»- 

';:'''';'''■;;;;    IvLtoric^a. Palo A.t«.,«u«.o:. 

x'''  f'      ■  wt  Ota  routed  coUu,,,.  or  ,1,.  o„c,„y 

,„™ed  a  U..e  of  --^":^-  ,^0  oastlo  of  Sa,, 
he  took  up  the  line  of  mar      ■  ,,^^.^,,_       ,, 

n""'  tdr/i:"i^n:.l«d  aio„gt,.eNa-^ 

^vcll-executed  coup  ae  v       ,  ...vaitcd  tlie  arrh'al  of 

reinforcements.     Wlienint  '      ^^  ^n  fouv  di- 

the  city  of  Mexicowithlusarmy  a    -gulj  ^^^^^^^^ 

visions,  under   the  command  ^V^^^^^^^  ^,„a 
Worth    Twiggs,  Pillow,  and  Qmtman.    Pass.n, 


r^JM-il^l'    !i'jm<.MIIl-'Jii-jm 


[1845-8. 

!  summer  of  1  Bit), 
•11  forward  in  tlie 
I'aylor  was  largc- 
iick  were  directed 
er  Generals  Wool 
r,  General  Taylor 
,  bank  of  the  iVu> 
lo  Alto  and  Kesaea 
i-oinforcements  and 
i-L-y,  the  capital  oi' 
uinns  of  tlu!  enemy 
uce,  this  town  also 
)f  September.     Ou 
achieved  a  decisive 
iccccded  Paredes  as 
oar  the  hacienda  of 

n  dispatched  ^vith  a 
Landing  near  thai- 
thousand  strong,  ho 
pcned  his  batteri^es. 
1  it  the  castle  of  San 
the  to^vn  and  castle, 
;hc  I^Toxican  capital, 
of  Cerro  Gordo  by  u 
Lthmed  along  the  Na- 
awaited  the  arrival  of 
3  up,  he  moved  upon 
arranged  in  four  di-- 
ectively,  of   Generals 
tman.    Passing  roma 


I 


1845-8.J 


THE    ARMISTICE. 


277 


the  lakes  Chalco  and  Xochimilco,  ho  catno  upon  the  south- 
cMi.  approaches  to  the  city  of  xMexico.  On  the  19th  and 
M  of  August,  1847,  were  fought  tlie  bloody  battles  of 
Cunt, eras  and  Cliurnbuseo,  and  the  capital  itself  seemed 
nwly  10  fall  hito  the  hands  of  the  victorious  Anierieans. 
4"lie  W  xican  autiiorities  began  to  repent  of  their  temeri- 
ty in  pi  e.oking  so  unequal  a  struggle,  and  proposed  an 
armistice,  to  give  an  opportunity  for  opening  negotiations, 
to  which  General  Seott  cheerfully  assented. 

Repeated  eftbrts   to  negotiate  had  been  made  in   the 
meantime  by  tlie  American  government.     In  July,  184(5, 
a  proiiosltion  was  distinctly  made  by  Mr.  Buchanan  to 
the  .Mexican  executive  to  open  negotiations  for  the  con- 
clusion of  a  pL;jjce,  but  the  friendly  oflbr  was  again  de- 
clined.    In  the  spring  of  18-17,  Mr.  Trist,  formerly  the 
chief  clerk  in  tlie  Department  of  State,  was  appointed, 
contrary  to  the  better  judgment  of  Mr.  Polk,  but  in  com- 
pliance with  the  request  of  a  great  number  of  his  friends, 
as  a  commissioner  to  accompany  the.  column  commanded 
by  General  Scott,  in  order  that  if  propositions  of  peace 
were  offered  they  might  be  acted  on  without  delay.    When 
the  armistice  was  concluded,  therefore,  Mr.  Trist  held 
several  conferences  with  the  commissioners  appointed  by 
the  Mexican  govcrmnent,  but  the  terms  demanded  by  the 
latter  were  wholly  ina.lmissible,  and  the  negotiation  ter- 
minated abruptly.     The  armistice  had  already  been  in- 
fringed, on  several  occasions^  and  Gtu.  Scott  determined 
to  bo  trifled  with  no  h.r.gor.     On  the  8th  of  September 
the  battle  of  El  Molino  del  Key  was  fought ;  on  the  13th 
instant,  the  castle  of  C'hapiiltepec  was  stormed  and  the 
western  gates  of  the  city  seized  by  the  American  troops  ; 


«n.w;iBa*'^>?«W-*-"-W-'^^-^^'-^-'-'^'''- 


piMis%^^iiiWi:isii/0^gL  ikJmm>y. 


m 


JAMES   KNOX  POLK. 


[18-45-8. 


„,a  „„  the  tollo™g  a.y  fair  ...naard  wa«  unfurlcl  in 
triumph  on  the  Waci"  of  Mex.co  ^^.^^ 

Soon  after  the  commenecmcnt  ot  «■«"•„ 
„,„,  the  Cahfomia,  had  hccn  7™  ;^f  pX„,X  „ia, 
.lo„ot,hy  General  Kearny  •^"\^'^lX,a.\,.U- 
,  .  .,,,tanee  «J  ^^^f ^Sl^tVcoleae-os  Bid*. 
t',e  comnuiud,  at  ditterci  i  p  coiuiiiest  of 

StockU,n,  SI*'*' f  „/Xco  G  '«'  ■'■»»'"  ''»'' 
''■-"■■'•'"''f':":r  ,,  r  .reontrol,  the  pvovh,e«  of 
";  ""  TTn  iuot  ndCoahnila-,  l-ainpieo, Tn.p.„ 

Alvarado,  and  \''7'°; , "  „,  (j„„e,.a  Seott  hohl  the  elty 

'Tv  TVt'S^'o  SanTuande  Ulua,  the  Une  „f 
of  Vera  tm  the  -.a  "0  ^^^^__^  ^^^  .^,_  .,  „,. 

,l,c  National  Uoad,  ,<.th   Ue  .n.p  ^|, 

tcvseeted,  and  the  cap,.»l  "  « J  ^'  ,P^,„  „„„„„ 
this  had  been  aeeo,nph»hed  m  «  '» '  ;  j,i„.G,„,„,e. 
after  the  tot  colhsien  on  the  banh,  of  ««  K 

tended,  fre<ine„tly  nnder  8-^'  ™J™^'°,,,,  ,'.„  „„ 
1,„t  always  with  sueees,;  ""'l^'J'i.^^^  „,„veit. 
borne,  the  eagles  of  vietory  f'Sj^J  J"'^  ...Trist  had 
Mcxieo  was  now  wrll.ng  to  negot  ate      "^ 

,.„  recalled,  ^^  J-^aHr  eHr  Me^o,  Ld  u,.- 
'r;r^r'orGe::::.Seotlheee„e,a^a^^^^^ 

tith  the  Mexlean  ^^77::^^^^^^'^' 
,„,e,  a.  Gnadalupe  H'^a^f^  ;  *"^r,^,  estahUshed 
1848.    By  this  treaty  the  Kio  urauu 


--g?^?^ 


fl845-8. 
il  was  unfurlctl  in 

var,  New  Mexico 
iiiul  taken  possos- 
nel  Fi'i:mont,  wiiii 
1  the  Pacific,  niuliv 
:^ommoilorcs  BiiWle, 
lidcs  the  contiuost  uE 
Iloneral  Tnyl^v  Ir-ul^ 
jl,  the  provinces  of 
;  Tampico,  Tnspan, 
vptureil  by  Counno- 
il  Scott  lield  tbc  city 
i  de  Ulua,  the  line  of 
,nt  towns  which  it  in- 
;xican  republic.     Ml 
;hau  eighteen  months 
I  of  the  Rio -Grande. 
the  American  soldiers 
[  for   them  •  to  meet. 
•  numbers,  they  con- 
.dvantages  of  position, 
.erevev  their  flag  was 
3d  to  hover  above  it. 
jtiatc.     Mr.Trist  had 
acting  in  disregard  of 
it  left  Mexico,  and  un- 

he  concluded  a  treaty 
appointed  for  that  pur- 
he  2d  day  of  I'cbruary, 
Grande  was  estabUshcd 


1848.] 


TUEATV    or    PEACE. 


279 


tts  the  boundary  between  the  United  States  and  Mexico, 
below  El  Paso  ;  and  the  provinces  of  New  Mexico  and 
Upper  ('alifornia, — the  latter  with  all  its  rich  mines  of 
wealth,  tlien  not  known  to  exist, — were  ceded  to  the 
1  niteil  States,  in  consideration  of  the  payment  to  Mexi- 
co of  the  sum  of  fifteen  millions  of  dollars,  and  the  as- 
suinption  by  the  former  of  the  claims  of  her  citizens. 

As  the  terms  of  the  treaty  were,  with  some  slight  ex- 
ceptions, satisfactory  to  Mr.  Polk,  he  submitted  it  to  the 
Soiiate,  although  itiiad  been  concUided  by  an  unauthor- 
ized person.  That  body  duly  ratified  it,  with  certain 
modifications,  on  the  10th  of  March  ;  the  amendments 
were  approved  by  the  Mexican  Congress,  and  on  the  30th 
day  of  May,  tlie  ratifications  were  exchanged  in  the  city 
of  Querctaro,  by  the  commissioners  of  the  two  govern- 
ments. 


•  aWSteiBafe:.  -.'  f.j%aiSfe4i^aesMa:.Jto!»tej}u4^U:.,j^ijUBJt^'ji^i«^ 


CTIATTEU  X. 

']-ho  iMdopon.lent  Treasury- TnrifT  of  IS^lfl-Cmr.o  in  rognnl  to  Arpolnt- 
racits-Uiver  and  llurl...r  Vclo-S...,n„.l  At.mn.l  Moi.!'iif!0-Sp(.<.i,il  .Mcs- 
«ngo  on  tbo  I.ni.r..v.Miu«.it,  llill-Tl.i.lioU,  (■„„Kru.^.^-l'iTsi.k..ifr.  Mc». 
8»Ke-Kcfiisnl  to  ConiiiMnuealo  DiilNiiiMio  (•(,rri'siH.ii(lcnco-(  livgot; 
T«rritorlnl  Hill-Viow.t  ..f  Mr.  l'())k-l'n'.-.hlonlial  i:  loot  ion- [..i.tt  Con- 
grew  during  his  administrution-lniiugunition  of  liiB  »uceefMr. 

Among  the  priiicipul  vucdinincmlations  in  tlio  first  an- 
nual messnge  of  Prc/idi  nt  P(»]i<,  ui  n>  tlii>  rct'staMishninit 
of  the  indqjcndcnt  tivasiuT  .^ystoui  ;  the  revision  of  the 
tariff  act  of  184-2,  in  such  a  maiiner  a.s  to  have  it  coiiform 
to  tlie  revenue  stamhml,  v,ith  the  suhstitution  of  ad- 
vnlorem  duties  for  mininuiuis,  oi-  I'alse  vahtatiovis,  and  for 
specific  duties  ;  the  increase  of  t  e  navy  by  the  construc- 
tion of  aihVitiona!  v.nr  steamer^  ;  and  tlie  -graduation  and 
reduction  of  the  luiniinuni  rate  a:  which  tlie  public  lauds 

were  sold. 

These  recommendations  were  cordially  approved  by 
Congress.  The  itidepohdent  treasury  law  was  revived, 
iind  again  established  under  more  favorable  a 'spices  than 
tiiose  which  attt'iided  it*  first  introduction  into  the  finan- 
cial system  of  the  ^.. eminent.  A  new  tarilV  law— 
known  as  tlie  tariff  of  lS4(i— of  a  purely  revenue  charac- 
ter, and  based  on  a  phiu  prepared  hy  the  secretary  of  the 
treasury,  Mr.  Walker,  was  also  r;ported  in  th.e  House 
of  Representatives  from  tlio  Ci)iii)nittee  of  Ways  and 
Means.     A  protracted  and  able  debate,  in  which  the 


T 


184.)-9.J  Al'i'OIXTMENTS   TO   OFFICE. 


281 


in  rt'Rnril  to  Ajipolnt* 
Io.«.«i\(;o— Hpcciiil  ,Mcs" 
UH.1— I'lTsiiU'iifii  Mc»- 
rri'spdiidi'iico — I  ii'i);i>n 
i;ioct ion— [iii.it  Cuii- 
ii»  8ucee.''.-«)r. 

IS  ill  tlio  first  an- 
L>  n'<"'stiil)lislinu'nt 
It'  revision  of  tlio 
()  liavo  it  conform 
jstitiition  of  ctd- 
iiluations,  ami  fur 
y  \>y  tlio  constnic- 
le  graduation  and 
li  tlie  public  lands 

ally  approved  by 
law  was  revived, 
able  n  'spices  tlian 
ion  into  tlie  finan- 
iiew  tarilV  law — 
y  revenue  cliarac- 
lic  secretary  of  the 
rted  in  tlie  IIouso 
tee  of  Ways  and 
ate,  in  which  the 


whole  subject  of  the  tariff  was  viewed  and  reviewed,  con- 
nidered  and  reconsidered,  for  the  Imndredth  time,  engaged 
the  attention  of  members  for  several  weeks.  The  bill 
was  finally  adopted  in  the  House  by  a  vote  of  one  hundred 
and  fourteen  to  niuety-four.  In  the  Senate  it  was  sus- 
tained by  a  vote  of  twenty-eight  to  twenty-seven,  and  it 
•went  into  operation  on  the  1st  day  of  December,  18-10. 
At  this  session,  also,  a  bill  was  passed,  and  approved  by 
the  President,  authorizing  inijiortedguiHls  subject  to  duty 
to  be  warehouseil  in  the  public  stores  for  a  limited  pe- 
riod,— the  (hities   to  be  paid   when  the  goods  were  rc- 

DloVi'd. 

Most  of  t!io  time  of  the  two  ILuisos  toward  the  latter 
part  of  tlio  session,  was  occupied  in  considering  and  act- 
ing upon  the  various  measures  suggested  or  proposed  for 
carrying  on  the  war.  In  gneral  a  most  commendable 
spirit  prevailed  in  thjs  respict,  among  the  members  of 
both  parties.  Whatever  the  President  asked  fiir  was 
promptly  voted,  and  in  addition  to  the  increase  of  the  reg- 
ular army,  t!ie  placing  the  navy  on  a  Avar  footing,  and 
tlie  authority  to  call  out  volunteers,  ample  pecuniary 
means  were  placed  at  his  disposal.  Besides  the  first  ap- 
propriation of  ten  millions  of  dt)llar.'5,  another  was  made 
of  twelve  millions,  and  various  smaller  sums  were  granted 
at  different  times. 

During  this  session  of  Congress,  the  President  was  re- 
(jiiired  to  make  a  great  number  of  changes  in  the  offices 
filled  by  his  appointment,  and  also  to  propose  many  new 
appointments.  In  making  his  selections  from  the  some- 
what numerous  applicants,  he  was  ever  governed  by  two 
considerations, — that  of  securing  a  faithful,  able,  and 


S3iWi«s>>  -is-fSiH^iJJli^  r^'i^ J-  -.^iAX..^  :^:U:^ '   ,i.i.-WHH<t'J  t'-^IUj: 


282 


,JAMKS    KNOX    POLK. 


(1845-a. 


honest  officor,  and,  if  consistent  with  the  former,  thnt  of 
]>roinoting  tho  iiitoreats  ami  welfaro  of  tlio  p.'irty  which 
had  olevato.1  him  to  tho  yo^dmi  ho  Hllcd.  His  «ituation 
was  ono  of  groat  delicacy.  Fermidahle  divisions  Inul 
grown  up  in  the  democratic  party  of  Now  York  ;  in  Penn- 
Bvlvania,  the  fri.  .da  of  Mr.  Dallas  and  Mr.  Buchanan 
were  not  on  the  most  cordial  terms;  in  tho  west,  Mr. 
Benton  had  m;  ny  warm  adherents,  and  many  bitter  op- 
I)onents,  in  tho  republican  party  ;  and  in  the  south,  the 
admirers  of  Mr.  Calhoun,  and  those  who  were  not  willing 
to  follow  his  load,  wore  often  pitted  against  each  other. 
To  avoid  an  open  riiptur.!  with  one  or  other  of  these  fac- 
tions was  difficult,  but  h(^  s'tcceodcd  in  doing  so  until  the 
last  j^ar  of  his  administration. 

Near  t.lie  closo  of  tlie  session,  a  bill  was  introduced  into 
the  Ho.;se  of  Ropreseutatives,  placlug  at  the  disj^.^ul  of 
tho  President  tho  sum  of  three  millions  of  dollars,  to  ho 
used  by  him,  if  he  deemed  it  expedient,  in  the  negotiation 
of  a  treaty  of  peace  with  Mexico.  While  the  bill  was 
under  discussion,  Mr.  Wihnot,  a  member  from  Pennsyl- 
vania, and  a  professed  friend  to  the  administration,  moved 
lUe  addition  of  a  proviso— to  which  his  name  has  since 
been  applied— prohibiting  tho  existence  of  domestic  sla- 
very, except  for  crime,  in  any  territory  on  the  continent 
of  America  acquired  by  or  annexed  to  the  United  States, 
by  virtue  of  the  appropriation.  Like  the  measures  of 
the  abolitionists  in  former  years,  this  proposition  was  re- 
garded by  the  southern  members  as  a  blow  aimed  at  the 
interests  which  they  were  expected  to  guard.  They  op- 
posed it,  therefore,  but  as  it  came  upon  them  suddenly, 
at  the  close  of  a  fatiguing  session,  it  did  not  excite  much 


!!tJ«'.J»    U»U'-.". 


iHifj-a. 


»  former,  tluit  of 

tlio  party  wliich 

,     His  sitiiivtion 

e  divisions  Imd 

York ;  in  I'onn- 

Mr.  liucluinan 

tlio  woat,  Mr. 

many  bitter  op- 

II  the  south,  tiie 

\vcro  not  williii;^ 

inst  each  other. 

icr  of  tlicsc  fac- 

oing  80  until  the 

5  introduced  into 
t  tlu;  disji!).<al  of 
of  dollars,  to  bo 
:i  the  negotiation 
lile  the  bill  was 
ir  from  Pcniisyl- 
listration,  moved 
name  has  since 
of  domestic  shi- 
on  the  continent 
e  United  States, 
the  measures  of 
oposition  was  re- 
!ow  aimed  at  the 
lard.  They  op- 
them  suddenly, 
not  excite  much 


Kcsass::; 


^^.  ,.      .  V 


o 


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ai:ij!JM^ajuajgi,-;^'^,;dgAkgilji-M^ 


18-15-9.  J 


HARnoR  AM)  nivr.u  nii.L. 


2S3 


feeling  or  occasion  inucli  dobiito.  It  was  snppurted  Ijy 
nearly  all  the  members  IVom  the  free  states,  ami  was  cnn- 
.sei[uently  carried,  iu  opposition  to  the  votes  (if  the  mem- 
bers from  the  slavcholding  states.  In  the  Senate,  tlu! 
bill,  which  had  been  amended  by  reducing  the  sum  asked 
for  to  two  millions  of  dollars,  was  lost  for  want  of  time. 
A  short  time  prior  to  the  adjournment,  an  act  Avas  pass- 
eil  iu  tlie  Senate,  Avhicli  had  received  the  favorable  vote 
of  the  House  on  the  20th  of  iMarcli,  making  appropria- 
tions for  the  improvement  of  certain  harbors  a'ld  rivers, 
in  all  amounting  to  nearly  fifteen  hundred  thousand  dol- 
lars. The  views  of  Mr.  Polk  on  the  subject  of  internal 
improvements  hadbecTi  long  maturing,  but  they  were  now 
firmly  established.  The  api)ropriation  of  so  large  an 
amount  of  money,  at  this  pecvdiar  juncture,  when  the 
country  was  involved  in  war,  appeared  to  him  most  un- 
wise ;  but  he  was  opposed  to  the  bill  upon  principle.  A 
number  of  the  appropriations  were  for  the  improvement  of 
rivers  that  could  scarcely  be  called  navigable,  and  of  liar- 
bors,  on  the  northern  and  western  lakes,  where  there  was 
no  commerce,  and  which  were  not  required  for  the  securi- 
ty or  shelter  of  vessels  engaged  in  it.  In  his  opinion, 
these  appropriations  were  not  needed  for  the  protection 
of  foreign  comnicrce,  or  of  the  vessels  of  the  United 
States;  and  he  was  unable,  therefore,  to  discover  any 
authority  for  makbg  them,  in  the  federal  constitution. 
For  this  reason  he  returned  the  bill  to  the  House,  on  the 
3d  day  of  August,  1846,  with  the  following  message  sta- 
ting his  objections  to  its  passage  : 


I 


r 


284 


JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


[1845-y 


IIARBOK    AND    niVEB    VETO. 


To  the  House  of  Representatives  : 

I  iiAVK  considered  tliu  bill  enliUed  "  An  net  making  appro- 
piiations  for  tlie  impovemcnt  of  certain  harbors  and  rivers," 
with  tlic  care  whiclv  its  importance  demands,  and  now  return 
tlie  same  to  the  House  of  Uepresenlatives,  in  which  it  origi- 
nated, with  my  objectidus  to  its  becoming  a  law.     Tiie  hill 
proposes  to  appropriate  one  million  three  hundred  and  sev- 
cnty-eiglit  thousand  four  hundred  and  iifty  dollars,  to  he  ap- 
plied to  more  than  forty  distinct  and  separate  objects  of  im- 
provement.    On  examining  its  provisions,  and  the  variety  of 
objects  of  improvement  wiiich  it  embraces,  many  of  them  of 
a  local  character,  it  is  dillicult  to  conceive,  if  it  shall  be  sanc- 
tioned and  become  a  law,  what  practical  constitutional  re- 
straint can  hereafler  be  imposed  upon  the  most  extended  sys- 
tem of  internal  improvements  by  the  federal  government  in 
all  parts  of  the  Union.     The  constitution  has  not,  in  my  judg- 
ment, confciTcd  upon  the  federal  government  the  power  to 
construct  works  of  internal  improvement  within  the  States,  or 
to  appropriate  money  from  tiie  treasury  for  that  purpose. 
Tiiat  this  bill  assumes  for  the  federal  government  the  right  to 
exercise  this  power,  cannot,  I  think,  be  ■^oubted.     The  ap- 
proved course  of  the  government,  and  the  deliberately  ex- 
pressed judgment  of  the  people,  have  denied  the  existence  of 
such  a  power  under  the  constitution.     Several  of  my  prede- 
cessors have  denied  its  existence  in  the  most  solemn  forms. 

'J'he  general  proposition  that  the  federal  government  does 
not  possess  this  power  is  so  well  settled,  and  has  for  a  con- 
siderable period  been  so  genjerally  asquiesced  in,  that  it  is  not 
deemed  necessary  to  reiterate  the  arguments  by  which  it  is 
sustained.  Nor  do  I  deem  it  necessary,  after  the  full  and 
elaborate  discussions  which  have  taken  place  before  the  coun- 
try on  this  subject,  to  do  more  than  state  the  general  consid- 


[1845-9 


1845-9.]  HARBOR    AXD    RIVK.K    V1,T0. 


285 


act  making  appro- 
iirbors  and  rivers," 
lis,  and  now  return 
s,  in  which  it  orii^i- 
r  a  law.     Tiie  hill 
'  hundred  and  scv- 
Y  dollars,  to  he  ap- 
rate  objects  of  im- 
,  and  the  variety  of 
s,  many  of  them  of 
:,  if  it  shall  ho  sanc- 
d  constitutional  rc- 

most  extended  sys- 
oral  frovcrnmcut  in 
las  not,  in  my  judg- 
nmcnt  the  power  to 
v.-ithin  the  States,  or 
<f  for  that  purpose, 
ernment  the  right  to 

^^oubted.  The  ap- 
the  deliberately  ex- 
nied  the  existence  of 
ievoral  of  my  prcde- 
nost  solemn  forms, 
■ral  government  does 

and  has  for  a  con- 
seed  in,  that  it  is  not 
nents  by  which  it  is 
y,  after  the  full  and 
lace  before  the  coun- 
e  the  general  consid- 


erations which  have  satislied  mo  of  the  unconstitutionality  and 
inexpediency  fif  the  increase  of  such  a  power. 

It  is  not  questioned  that  the  federal  gnverninent  is  one  of 
limited  powers.  Its  powers  are  sucii,  and  such  only,  as  an? 
expressly  granted  in  the  constitution,  or  are  properly  incident 
to  the  expressly  granted  powers,  and  necessary  to  their  exe- 
cution. In  determining  whether  a  given  power  has  been 
granted,  a  sound  rule  of  construction  has  been  laid  down  by 
Mr.  Madison.  That  ruh;  is,  that  "  whentjvor  a  question  arises 
cniicerning  a  particular  power,  the  first  ((uestion  is  whether 
the  power  be  expressed  in  the  constitution.  If  it  be,  the 
question  is  decided.  If  it  be  not  exjiressed,  the  next  inquiry 
nuist  be,  whether  it  is  properly  an  incident  to  an  expressed 
powei',  and  necessary  to  its  execution.  If  it  be,  it  may  be  ex- 
(■rcised  by  Congress.  If  it  be  not,  Congress  caimut  exeri^iso 
it."  It  is  not  pretended  that  there  is  any  express  grant  in 
the  constitution  confening  on  Congress  the  power  in  (juiistion. 
is  it,  then,  an  incidental  power,  necessary  and  proper  for  the 
execution  of  any  of  tiie  granted  powers  ?  All  the  granted 
jM)wers,  it  is  contidently  .itlirmed,  may  be  eflectually  executed 
v.ilhout  the  aid  of  such  an  incident.  "A  power  to  be  inci- 
Jental  must  not  be  exercised  for  ends  which  make  it  a  princi- 
pal, or  substantive  power,  independent  of  the  principal  power 
to  which  it  is  an  incident."  It  is  not  enough  tiiat  it  may  b(! 
regarded  by  Congress  as  convenient,  or  that  its  exercise  would 
advance  the  public  weal.  It  must  be  necessary  and  i)ro]ier 
to  the  execution  of  the  principal  expressed  pow(!r  to  winch  il 
is  an  incident,  and  without  wjiich  such  principal  power  can- 
not be  carried  into  effect.  Tiie  w]u)le  frame  of  the  fedeial 
constitution  proves  that  the  govenuuent  whicli  it  creates  was 
intended  to  be  one  of  limited  and  s])ecified  powers.  A  con- 
struction of  tlie  constitution,  so  broad  as  that  by  which  tlie 
power  in  question  is  defended,  tends  imperceptibly  to  a  con- 
solidation of  power  in  a  government  intended  by  its  framers 
to  be  thus  limited  in  its  authority.     "  The  obvious  tendency 


ril 


^ij*^te»HVlW^sic  ■.&ll'i>l*4'iHA.'J**i  ^ 


1 


286 


JAMF.S    KNOX    I'OLK. 


[1845-0 . 


t,,.rnit...iSi...s  in....  monarchy."      U>  ^navd  n-m.i   .1^ 

,ovon  .mtv  of  ih.  S.at.s.  i.n.l    ^vhu■h   om-.., ucn    v    U,ul 
::.o,ida,ionJs,iu.auUoMa,U.,Mnu.fn;.,u.so     ,.^^^^^^^^^^^^ 

,u.i.l,-nt  U.  any  or  U...  ,n.:U.,l    , .,■>  J    an.  lully  sa  .i.  1  • 

l.ut  if  llKTO  were  doulu>  on  lln>  sul^rH,  .-xiH.n.Mu.   ba>  cl 

,,.,Mn-aUovon,nu.n(sl..:iaal..aln.n>n.lln..x...- 
,r.,r.au.s,ional,U.o,-.loul.lnliu.,..:>.      11  an  .nlanr.-n.  ot 

.vn-sorU..f,.a.,.l,ovn-nnu.ut.ho.dai.ea...^^^ 
L\,issal,.rand.i>c.rloap,u.::l.oth.Ma..saua    lu.p.    - 

'    .UuM„oa,.pn.<n.ilH.aby.lK-con.ln,Uon,loM..,n.n 

Lred,au.n.o:sunK.its.xon.is...ltlu.Uanan.u,.^^^ 
the  constitution.      If  ^on^n^s  do,,  nut   poss..      !     |     • -1 
power  to  constrvK't  works  of  internal  ntMm.ven.ent  .n  ,.n    .^. 
.   ktes,  or  to  appropriate  n.ntev  front  the   trea.try  h^t 
purpose,  ^vhat  is   there  to  exen.pt  son.e,  a    least    ot  the  ob 
H!  of  Appropriation  ineluded  in  this  bill  trotn  the  ope...  o. 
,  the  gc^in.;  rule  7     This  bill  assumes  the  ex.stene.  of      . 
power,!. nd  in  sonte  of  its  provisions  asserts  t   e  prtn^aph-. .    n 
K.  ,.  .ss  n..v  exe..cise  it  as  fully  as  tho.,,h  the  approp  u^ 

i,„>s  whiel.  it  p,-oposes  were  applicable  to  the  co,.st,;uet,u    of 

,,„asa,.d  canals.     If  there  be  a  disti..e,.on  n.  pme.ple.  .     . 

„,    „,,-eeived   a..d  sh..t.ld  be  elea.-ly  dei.ned.     ^.n.e  <.l  .l.o 

;;;^;r:;:;.Mn'iauoneo..tai.^i.uh.biiia..h.an._.w 

.hi.-acter,  ...d  lie  uithin  the  hm.ts  of  a  -'o^V^'^-  ;  l^^ 

,houo-h,  in  the  la.,guao.e  of  the  b.ll,  tbey  are  e.lled  ha  b  .  . 

evlu;  rtot  con,.ected  with  fV>reign  co.nmeree,  ..or  are  t 

,1'  e    of  refu'^e  or  shelter  for  our  navy,  or  eom.ne.r.al  n  a- 

":  on  the  oeean  or  lake  sho,vs.     To  call  the  mo.uh  of  a 

m'ov  a  shallow  inl.t  o.t  our  coast,  a  harbor,  ean.tot  conU. 

the  authoritvto  expettd  the  ptiblic  money  .n  .Is  .mprovemott. 


J 


flRUVO. 


1815-9.]  UAIinOK    AND    UIVKK    VETO. 


287 


till'  States  ir.i.)  iiiii" 
■  puliliran  s_\^''in  "f 
»  miard  a;,iin>l  '.li" 
1  Upnll  llu'  iTscrvrd 
n-cii'.icnlly  li'iiil  l'> 
friciuls  of  ouf  |H.lit- 
n  is  lint  pni|»'ily  an 

am  I'ully  salisilrtl  : 
,  fxprrii'iu'i'  lias  il.  - 
all  till'  l'l;nt•li^nanL•^i 
I,  tVcm  ill''  '■\''n'i:-o 
If  an  rnlari;vmrii;  of 
ijiiiil  be  di'fiiird  iii'i- 
.  Slalrs  ami  tlu'  \f'<- 
liiiii'iii,  for  lliL'  -;-nint, 
out  an  aiiifiulinunt  ol 

possess  the  <4.'iitnil 
pniseiuent  wiilr.ii  i la- 
the  treasury  for  that 
■,  at  least,  of  the  oli- 
ill.fiom  the  operatioa 
;  the  existence  of  tho 
-rts  the  prineiiile,  thai 
Lhough  the  appropvia- 
to  the  coustrucliou  of 
ftion  ill  prineiple.  it   is 
Icfined.     ^oine  of  the 
is  hill  are  loeal  in  their 
f  11  singh'  Slate;  and 
ley  are  ealled  liarbors, 
omnieree,  nor  are  they 
vv,  or  commercial  nia- 
:<)  call  the  mouth  <if  a 
a  harbor,  cannot  confer 
ney  in  its  improvement. 


Cnii'^ress  jiave  cxercisrd  tiie  power,  coeval  with  the  coii'lilii- 
licinfof  otalili-hin--  li-hili.aHes,  beacons,  buoys,  and  piers,  on 
onr  ocean  and  lake  shoivs,  for  ilie  piirjiose  of  renderiiiy,'  navi- 
o-atlon  safe  and  easy,  and  of  alVording  prolcciion  and  shelter 
Inr  our  navy  and  niher  shlp[.iiig.  These  are  Mifenaiards 
jilaced  in  existing  channels  of  navi--alion.  After  ih.;  lon;_''^  ac- 
iiuiescence  of  the  n-.,v,.n„m.|it,  throuuh  all  preceding  adminis- 
l!;i';ons,  I  ;iin  not  dl^poM'd  (o  (luolioii  or  dislnrl)  the  aiiihor- 
ilv  to  make  ;ijipi-opria;ioas  for  such  ]va:a)ost's. 

'  Whi-n  we  advance  a  st0]i  beyond  this  poini,  :::a!,  in  auili- 
lion  to  the  esti«br.-:.;e.ent  ;'!a!  suppnri,  by  a|.prnpi-i:ui(i:i-.  h-iv 
liie  ti-easurv,  of  ligiilhouscs,  beacons,  baoys,  piers,  and  "-Ju:- 
iniiirovcmenls,  wiiiiin  tiio  bays,  inlets,  and  harliors,  on  our 
ocean  and  lake-  coa>ts  immediately  coiuiecled  with  oar  foieigu 
coiiiiiurce,  attempt  lo  maki'  impiovemcnts  in  the  interior  at 
points  micomiecled  with  foieign  commerce,  and  where  lluy 
lire  not  needed  for  tlie  protection  and  seiairity  of  our  navy 
and  rcmineirial  -narine,  th'e  difliciilly  arises  in  drawing  a  line 
i)cyoiul  which  ajiproitrialions  may  not  be  made  by  the  |ed- 
cral  gotermiient. 

One  of  my  pn  decessors,  who  saw  the  evil  conM-iiuences  ol 
the  system  proposed  to  b(;  revived  by  this  bill,  attemiited  \o 
detine  this  line  by  declaring  that  "expenditures  of  this  char- 
acter" shmild  be'"ctMirnu;d  below  the  jiorls  of  entry  or  de- 
li-cry established  by  law."  Acting  on  this  restriction,,  he 
v.iililu-ld  his  sanction  from  a  bill  which  had  passed  Congress 
•'  lo  improve  the  navigation  of  the  Wabash  rivca-."  He  was 
al  tlie  same  time  "sensible  that  this  restriclion  was  not  as 
satisfactory  as  could  be  desired,  and  that  much  embarrass- 
ment may"  be  caused  to  the  Executive  Department  in  its  exe- 
cution, by  appropriations  for  remote  and  not  well-understood 
objects.""  This  restriction,  it  was  soon  found,  was  subject  to 
be  evaded,  and  rendered  comparatively  useless  in  checking 
the  system  (.f  improvements  which  il  was  designed  to  arrest, 
in  consequence  of  tlie  facility  with  which  ports  of  entry  and 


i 


^ 
«# 


1 


288 


J.\Mt;S    KNOX    1'>)I.K. 


[1845-0. 


,l,,llv,.rvn,:.vlHTMahlM.(l   l,y  law  upon   tl.r  irprr  waters: 
,,„ain;n,u."inslan..saln.o>lat.h.'l.-a(ls,„-m-s  ut  some  ol 
U,..  ,„nst  unimi>u,tant  nvers,  and  at  ,,„ints  on  u»r  .'oast  pos- 
s,.s.in>'  no  c.nun.Trial  iiupoHan.M..  an.l  not  used  as  pla^.-s  ot 
.vfugo  mul  safotv  Ly  our  navy,   an.l   oihrr  -l.ippinj^.     Many 
,.f  the  ports  uf  nitrv  an.l  .l-Hv.'ry  n,.w  autlH-ri/rd  Uy  law,  s„ 
far  as  fur.^i-n  cmniercc'  is  .■.m.vrn.Ml.  ..xi>t  ..nly  m  ih..  statut.- 
1,ook..     No  ..ntrv  of  foroi-n  -oods  is  .'vrr   nin.l.'.  an.l  no  dn- 
ti,.san.  cNvr  colWtod   at   then,       No  .•Np..r(s  of  Anu'ru-au 
pv.,dn.'tsh..undf.u-f..r.-.-nn,untn.s   ..^r  c^ar   from  iIi.mti 
T..  assum.'  thai  Ih.-ir  .'xisfn.'..  in  thr  stalnlr-l,ook  as  ports  o 
.,„,,„,a,.liv-rv,  warrant.  .■xp.'.ulit.uvs.M,  ,!,.■  wat.Ts  l..ad- 
i,„.  i„  ,1,,,,,,  vvlnrh  would    \n-  ..tla.rwi-..   unauth..n/.'.l,  would 
hMoa^s-.n  th..  pr..po>i.ion  ihat    th.   law-uiakin-  p..w..rn>ay 
engraft  n..wprovi-;ons  on  ,lu..-ons,i.ut;o„.      If  ,l,.Mvstr,.:t,ou 
is  a  s,™ul  ..m^  it  ean  .,nly  apply  to  ,lu.  hays,  ud..ts,  and  nv- 

ors  conn.'.t.'d  with  .,r  l.adin.^-  t..  .u.d>  ports  as  actually  have 
for.M.m  cnunrrcM.  :  ports  at  whi.'h  foroi;^u  in,port<a,ons  arnvo 
in  hulk,  pavin.  the  duti-s  char^.'.l  hy  law,  and  from  ^vlu.h 
exports  ar.:  mad.  to  for-i^n  c.>untri..s.  It  wdl  u-  ound,  hy 
an plvin-  the  restriction,  thus  und.Mslood.  to  the  hdl  under 
c:msidonai.>n,  that  it  cmtains  appropriations  for  m.av  than 
tw.M.tv  ..Im-ets  .,f  int.'rnal  impnn-ein.'ul.  .-allrd  m  th.-  h,ll  har- 
hors,  ;a  piu...  which  have  n..v.>r  1.,.,..  dcckuvd  hy  k. w  e.lher 
ports  of  ..ntrv  or  d-livcry,  and  at  which,  as  appears  rom  tin, 
n.cords  of  thV'  treasury,  Hum-.,  has  never  ben  a  vessel  cleared 
for  a  foreiu'n  .'.uuitry. 

It  ^vill  be  found  thutmanv  of  thos,>  works  are  new,  and  at 
T,kK-es  for  the  improvement  of  which  appropriations  are  n..w 
L-  the  first  time  prop.^sed.  It  ^viU  he  f.-und,  also,  that  the 
bill  contains  appropriations  for  viv..rs  .up..n  wlu.-h  there  not 
onlv  exists  no  foreign  commerce,  but  upon  ^vhich  the,-e  has  not 
be.;  established  even  a  paper  port  of  entry,  and  f.,r  the  m..uths 
of  creeks,  denominated  harbors,  which,  if  improved,  can  ben- 
efit only  the  particular  neighborhood  in  which  they  are  situa- 


till'  u:  per  waters: 
sprinifs  uf  suinc  <il' 
Is  on  our  const  pos- 
it \isi'(l  as  plac'fs  of 
■r  'liii)iiin'4.     Many 
iihnii/.fd  liy  law,  so 
.(only  ill  tlic  staUitf- 
r   m;u!r.  ami  no  du- 
\porls  of  Aniciican 
■  ]■  clrar  from  lln'in. 
Utr-liook  as  iiui-ts  ol 
on  \\\r  waters  leail- 
\inanth(;ri/.e(l,  would 
-iiiakiiii,'  power  may 
11.      If  the  restriction 
hiivs,  inlets,  and  riv- 
)rts  as  acUially  liavn 
fu  iiii])ortations  arrive 
.aw,  and  from  wliieh 

It  will  be  found,  by 
od.  to  tlie  bill  under 
atious  for  more  than 
callrdin  the  bill  har- 
leelared  bylaw  either 
,  Hii  appears  from  the 
been  ii  vessel  cleared 

vorks  are  new,  and  at 
ppro])riations  are  now 
:  fenuul,  also,  that  the 
upon  which  there  not 
m  which  there  has  not 
rv,  and  for  the  mouths 
if  improved,  can  ben- 
1  which  they  are  situa- 


1845-9. J  iiAiujoa  AND  nivKii  vKru. 


289 


led.  Tt  will  be  found,  too,  to  contain  appropriations,  llio 
e.vpenditure  of  which  will  oidy  have  the  ctficl  of  im|)r()vinL,' 
one  place  at  the  expeiisi'  of  the  local,  natural  aUvantages  of 
another  in  its  vicinity.  Should  this  bill  bec(jine  ii  law,  the 
same  ])nnciple  wlticli  aulliori/es  tlie  appro|)riatioiis  which  it 
proposes  t(j  make,  wduld  also  authorize  similar  appropriations 
iov  (he  inijii'ovcm'Mit  of  all  the  ollii'r  i)avs,  inlr!<,  and  creek-, 
wliii'h  may  with  e([Ual  propriety  lie  called  harliors,  and  of  all 
the  rners,  imi)oitanl  or  imimporlanl,  in  every  ]>art  of  the  rnioii. 
'I'o  >:;iiclioii  the  bill  with  such  )irii\  i>ioi!s.  would  bi-  to  con- 
cede the  principle  that  the  fcdi'ral  ijovernment  possesses  the 
]io\ver  t(j  expend  the  [)u!i!ie  money  in  a  e-eneral  system  of  iii- 
teraal  improvement-;,  limited  in  its  extent  only  by  the  e\er- 
^ar\•inlf  discretion  of  successive  Con^'resses  and  succes>ive 
executives,  it  would  l)e  to  ellace  and  remo\e  the  limitations 
and  restrictions  of  jiower  which  the  coii-^tilution  has  wisely 
])rovidnl.  t(j  limit  tl.e  authoril}'  and  action  of  the  federal 
irovernmeat  to  a  few  wcll-delineil  and  specilicd  object-;.  De- 
sides  these  (jl)jections,  ijic  jirai'tical  evils  which  must  tlov,- 
from  the  exercise,  on  the  part  of  the  federal  e-overnment,  of 
the  powers  ;isseried  in  this  bill,  impress  mvmiiid  wi-th  a  !.,navi' 
sense  of  my  duty  to  avert  them  from  llu'  country,  as  far  as 
mv  constitutional  action  may  enable  me  to  do  so. 

]t  not  only  leads  to  a  consolidation  of  |iower  in  the  federal 
government  at  tlu^  expense  of  the  rielitfid  authorit'-  of  the 
stales,  but  its  inevitable  tendency  is  to  end)race  objects  for 
the  ex])enditure  of  the  public  money  which  are  local  in  their 
character,  benetltinif  but  few,  at  the  expense  of  the  c(jmmoii 
treasury  of  the  whole.  It  will  engender  sectional  feelings 
and  prejudices  calculated  to  disturb  the  luirmony  of  the 
Union.  It  will  destroy  the  harmony  which  should  ]ircvail  in 
our  U'gislalive  counsels.  Jt  will  produce  combinations  of 
local  and  sectional  interests,  strong  enough,  when  united, 
to  carry  projjositions  for  appropriations  of  public  money  which 
could  not  of  themselves,  and  standing  alone,  succeed,  and 

18 


2'JO 


JAMi:S     KNOX     I'UI.K, 


[l84.>-'.». 


,,,n„ot  fail  to  Vud  to  ^vast.•rul  an.l  ..xUavagant  ..^l,.■u.lllun■s. 
H  ,„„,,  .,,„hu.e  =i  (llsn.iu'lal'lo  ^n-u.nbl.'  l-'  tl,.  i-ul-ho 
„„„„.v.  l,v  Ih..  .o,;tV;.t  uliirl.  is  iiKqmn.blo  iVum  such  u  sys- 
„,„  1,..^;...,  local  an.l  l.ulivuU.al  iuLnvsts  and  the  yoiuTal 
i„„,,„,sof  tl...  ^^ho^■.  U  is  unjust  to  ihoso  .latos  wh.oh 
l.,nv  vvh  th-.irow,,  n..ans,  roa-mu-lra  tl>rir  uwi.  uiI.t.,:.! 
li,„,,„v,.,„.nts,  to  ,nak..  fmn.  ih.  <  on.nuMi  tiva^u.V  a,.,,ro,n.- 
Milms  lor  similar  in^provcmcUs  iu  olhcr  slalcs  In  .ts  ..,>- 
.,,,tion  it  ^vill  ln.opp,.^sis,.an.l  anjuM  tuuard  (ho-,  stales 
^vlu,s..  n.i>n.M.ntativ..s  and    ,u.,.,,lc  nlh.T  d.ny  or  .MU   tl, 

...istcn. f  the  i.ow,T.  or  think  its  cNnr,.-  nu.x,...dn.nt,  and 

^.ho.^vhil..  tin-vqually  .-ntrihul.-  t.  ilK.   tn.a>ury.  cannot. 

consislcntlv  Nvith  th.lr  -M.inl.ns.  v.ff^^c  in  the  f^.'noral  com- 
,,.Milion  i-o;  a  slKU-e  o,'  the  puhlic  n.oncy.  1  n.s  a  la.-c  po.  - 
;,i„„  .,r  tlu>  Union  in  nun>l,c.sand  in  ^<-oj.rai)lucal  oxtml  c.m- 
t,ih«,in.-  its  ciual  pr.pnrlH.u  .4-  taxes  lo  the  support  ot  tho 
.,.,,v..rnmcnt.  w,,uld,u-..!cr  tlu.  operation  ol  M.ch  a  system   ho 

:„n,pe]led  to  see  tl,e  national  tr. :.  un.  -  the  connuon  s.oc. 
„rall.-uneouallvd;-hurse.l.and  oi-len  in^M-ovulentlyNvas  e,! 

inv  tlu.  advantage  ,<i  sn.all  actions,  instead  u(  hen,^  apphed 
,„„,e..n.at  national  purposes  in  ^vhich  ail  have  a  connnun 
interest,  and  for  Nvhieh  .lon<.  li.^  p-wer  to  cnllec,.  lr,e  reve.uu. 
,v,.  n-lven  Should  tlwj  system  of  internal  unprovement-. 
„nm.Zed  prevail,  all  thc<e  evils  ;vill  nndtipiy  and  mcreasc 
Ul'theinerea^eof  the  numherof  tin.  States,  and  t!K.extens;,.:, 

,  f  ,h,.  „.,.n..-raphieal  limits  of  tl.c  settled  portions  of  our  cmm- 
,,v  NVith  Ih..  increase  of  our  numher>  and  the  extensu.n  nt 
our  settlements,  the  hu-al  objects  demanding  npprupnafons 
.,,■  „„.puhlicmnnevf.r  their  in.pr..ements.->l     he  propor^ 

li„„,t,,  .  increased.  In  each  case,  the  expenditure  ot  th. 
public  money  would  confer  ben..Hts,  dnect  or  urdn-ect,  onlv 
cm  a  section,  while  tlu-M'  sections 


woidd  become  daily  less  in 


comparison  with  tl-.e  whole.  _ 

■iL,  ,viKhm>  of  the  IVar.ers  of  the  eonsiaution,  m  w.thhold- 
ino-  power  over  such  object,  from  the  federal  government,  tmu 


;.  (184iV.t. 

.va;'aiit  ('\ii(ii(liturc'-. 
iihii"  t'o.'  th.'  i-ulilic 
ible  from  s^uch  a  sy;-- 
•cst!*,  iiiul  the  f^fiii'iiil 
)  tliost'  hliitos  wliioh 
il  tlicii'  iiwii  iiilcrnal 
(,ii  li-casiiiy  iippnijiri- 
I'V  sliilcs.      Ii»   its  i>Y' 

I  (nwaid  lliii-i'  stairs 

■  r  tlciiv  (ir  (liiiil)l  tlio 
n-lsi'  iiicxiicd'n'iit,  nnil 

\\\v  tiTioiiry,  caniiii!, 
•  ill  the  !;t'i!('ial  com- 
V .  'I'liiis,  !i  lai-i'  Jioi'- 
itrrapliical  cxti'iil,  i'<>ii- 

io  ihi-  suppiirt  "1"  thii 

II  ill"  Mich  a  system.  Im: 
.  —  Uie  ci.ninioii  stuck 

;,npr(ivi(lent!y  wasted, 
^icail  III'  lu'iiej,-  applied 
cdi  all   have  ii  coninioii 

■  to  eolli'Cl.  ll'.e  ivvenue 
intiTiial  iiniirovniirnti 
imdliply  ami  iiiiM-easo 
llalrs,  and  llie  e\teii;-;'i;i 
d  portions  of  our  eniiii- 
M-s  and  tlie  extension  ot 
Handing  nppi'opriations 
;mcnts  will  be  proi>i>r- 
the  expenditure  of  tle.i 
(liiect  or  indirect,  only 
1,1  become  daily  less  iu 


instit,\ition 


,  in  willihold- 


fcderal  f^ovenimcut,  and 


1845-9.]  iiAnnoR  and  river  veto. 


291 


leaving  tliem  to  tlio  local  jrovernmenfs  of  tlie  states,  becomes 
more  and  more  manifest  with  every  year's  ..xperience  of  tho 
r.perations  of  our  system.     In  n  eo.mtry  of  limited  extent. 
with  but  few  such  objects  of  expenditure,  (if  the  f,,rm  of  jrov- 
.•rnment  permitted  it),  ii  conunon  treasury  miglit  h,^  used  for 
theif  miprovement  with  much  less  inequality  and  injusti-o 
than  in  one  of  the  vast  extent  which  ours  n.,w  presents  in 
p<'pnlation  and  territory.     The  treasure  of  the  wo.kl  would 
hardly  be  equal  to  the  improvement  of  every  bay,  inlet,  creek, 
and  river,  in  our  country,  whicl-.  might  be  .supposed  to  pro- 
mute  the  agricultural,  manufacturing,  or  commercial  interests 
of  a   neighborhood.     The   federal   constitution    was   wisely 
adapted  in  its  provisions  to  any  expansion  of  our  limits  and 
jiopulation ;  and  with  the  advance  of  the  confeden.jy  of  the 
States,  in  the  career  of  national  greatness,  it  becomes  the 
more  apparent  that  the  harmony  of  tho  Union,  and  the  equal 
justice  to  which  all  its  parts  arc  entitled,  require  that  the  fed- 
eral government  .should  conline  its  action  within  the  limits 
pri.'scribed  by  the  constitution  to  its   power  and   authority. 
Some  of  tho  provisions  of  this  bill  are  not  suhj^ct  to  the  ob- 
jections stated  ;  and,  did  they  stand  alone,  1  sjiould  not  feel 
it  to  be  my  duty  to  withhold  my  appro\al.     If  no  constitu- 
tional objections  existed  to  the  bill,  there  are  others  of  a  seri- 
ous nature  which  deserve  some  considciralion.     It  appropri- 
ates between  one  and  two  millions  of  dollars  for  objects  which 
are  of  no  pressing  necessity  ;  and  this  is  proposed,  at  a  time 
when  the  country  is  engaged  in  a  foreign  war,  and  when  Con- 
gress at  its  present  session  has  authorized  a  loan,  or  the  issue 
of  treasury-notes,  to  defray  the  expenses  of  the  war,  to  be  re- 
sorted to  if  the  "  exigencies  of  the  government  shall  require 
it."     It  would  seem  to  be  the  dictate  of  wisdom,  under  such 
circumstances,  to  husband  our  means,  and  not  to  waste  them 
on  comparatively  unimportant  objects,  so  that  we  may  reduce 
the  loan  or  issue  of  treasury-notes,  which  may  become  neces- 
sary, to  the  smallest  practicable  sum.     It  would  seem  to  be 


2d2 


JAMKS    KNOX    I'OI-K. 


[1815-0. 


^i.o   too,  to  al.s,mn  from  surl,  ..xi.mliUnvs  ...  .  a  u.w  U 

:fi.iMvouiai,,.opi,,...a,oU...ini,..vMso,  oun ,!.■..>. 

villus  to  111.  i;-.mus  of  our  iVociuM. unions        ^ 

1.1..S    uill    u.vi.uMy   l.a.l  to  lar,.-  a.ul   a.uuu.U)    m  n  a, . 
;,,,,,,,,..  ana  clnins  upon  tlu.  tn.aHun.  lur  .t.s  no     o 

;    oui...a.t!uanunn...us..lu.vl...ali..s.not..^^^^^^^ 

ils,„-ovi>ions.W.luiu.ns  u.u.U  .•ntitU  to  the  f  no    ol  tl  . 

':'     um.nt   us    tlL    wln..h   .uv    .Mnl..u..l     w  1  d.nuuu!, 
C;     tlu.irve,..s..n.n.iv..inCougn.sstobe,.W.lon<m 

'    ri-ooting  .ill.  th-..     NVill>  such  an  .nc.eusc  o    ex,..     - 

i,  ,,.  .nustm-ccssarily  follow  hUut  a,.  nK.>vas..cl  publ-c  d, 

inon.as,.d  bunl..    vpou  the  people  by  taxation,  to  supply 

L  treasuvv  with  Hu.  .ncans  of  meeting'  the  accumulate.!  de- 

11  up.,  it.     ^Vi^M.-^-und  .espe..  a.r  t^,  oj— ^ 

Cun.M-e.',  and  ever  anxious,  as  far  as  I  can  couM,  ently  nn> 
„.y  i^spouMbilhy  to  our  c.  .unuou  constHuentMo  c.^pcn.u.  ^u  h 

\L  il  the  disJhar,,.  of  our  respective  duties    '   '■;;  ; 

fei.n.ed  regret  thai  I  liiul  my.elf  constrained,  for  i.e  .eas  . 
'vl^^.ch  1  have  assigned,  to  withhold  my  approval  irom  tin. 
bill. 

Thovcto  of  the  President  occasioned  surpri-sc  on  the 
p.rt  of  some  of  the  members  of  the  llouseovl>o;vero 
either  ignorant  of  his  sentiments  on  the  subject  of  inter- 
nal improvements,  or  supposed  that  ho  ^vould  overlook 
the  few  items  in  the  bill  of  an  objectionable  character. 
After  some  debate,  the  bill  was  reconsidered  on  the  -itii 
of  August,  and  declared  lost.     Ninety-seven  members 
voted  that  the  bill  should  become  a  law,  notwithstandn.,^' 
the  objections  of  the  President,  and  ninety-one  voted  in 
the  negative  ;  consequently  there  were  not  two-thirds  in 
its  favor. 


[1815-9. 


184.')-0.]  PI.CONU    ANNl'Ar,    mf,hsa(;k 


0( 


)8 


ivfs  with  11  view  In 
dfbt,  till-  fxlsU'ticd 

Is  of   our  IK'illll'',  ll:* 

z\\)V'  which  il  rstub- 
ammiilly  incivii^in;,' 
ury,  for  it  i^^  »"'  '" 
vA,  i\ol  cnibriifi'd  ii» 

I  lo  till'  fiivuf  of   tlic 

ui'i'd.    will  lii'iiciiu!, 
I,  to  bo  pliici'd  "II  an 
iiu'iciiso  of  cxjii'iiil- 
I'lciiscd  {Uiblic  drill, 
■  taxation,  to  supply 
ih'.  uccunnd:itod  do- 
;  for  the  opinions  of 
:aii  cousislcntly  wiih 
.■nt8, to  cooperate  with 
duties,  il  is  with  un- 
lined,  for  the  reasons 
f  approval  from  this 

iicd  surprise  on  the 

0  House,  wlio  wcvo 
the  subject  of  intev- 
,  ho  would  overlook 
.'Ctionablc  character, 
jonsidcred  on  the  -ItU 
inety-sevcn  members 
law,  notwithstanding 

1  ninety-one  voted  in 
ere  not  two-thirds  in 


Oil  the  Tthday  of  l)iciiiib(.T,  tiic  tweiity-iiintli  (\iii- 
press  reiisHcnibied  fur  tlio  short  hc:<n1oii.  'I'lio  war  witli 
Mexico  was  tlie  [iriiicipal  topic  di.scuHsed  in  the  Presi- 
dent's inessa^^'c.  lie  r.eoiiimciiih.,!  tlic  vigorous  prosecu- 
tion of  oireiisive  measures  until  "  iiidfinnity  for  the  past 
and  security  for  tiic  I'utiire  "  were  obtained,  tii-  ^'rantiii;,' 
<if  letters  of  marque  and  reprisinl,  and  the  appropriation 
(if  the  sum  of  three  millions  of  dollars  asked  for  at  the 
previi  MS  session.  He  also  repeated  his  views  in  regard 
to  tlie  tariff  system,  and  tlie  graduation  and  reduction  of 
the  prices  of  the  piililic  lands.* 

A  bill  making  the  ib'sircd  appropriation  of  three  mil- 
lions was  introdiicid,  and  passed  tin;  House,  with  the 
addition  oi'  the  Wiluiot  Proviso  adojited  as  an  amend- 
ment after  a  long  and  heated  debate  ;  but  in  tlie  Senate, 
the  amendment  was  stricken  out,  and  the  bill  afterwards 
became  a  law  in  its  original  shape.  Hills  providiii"  foi 
the  increase  of  the  army  by  ten  reginu'iits,  for  the  ap- 
pointment of  additioiia!  clliecis,  iind  lor  the  construction 
of  four  mail-steamers,  and  the  (iiiploymeiit  of  twelve  in 
addition,  to  be  built  by  private  individuals,  in  the  mail 
service,  were  passed  at  this  session. 

At  this  session,  abo,  an  act  was  passed  entitled  "  an 
act  to  provide  for  continuing  a  certain  public  work  in  the 
Territory  of  Wisconsin,  and  other  purposes."  This  bill 
was  the  same,  substantially,  with  that  vetoed  by  the 
President  at  the  previous  session.  It  was  adopted  in  the 
House  by  a  vote  of  SO  to  72,  and  passed  the  Senate  on 
the  last  day  of  the  session.  Not  having  time  to  examine 
with  sufficient  care  the  details  of  the  bill,  or  to  prepare  a 
*  See  the  Appendix. 


I 


—mvi&riss.. > '  a^-i,  ..■^iisr. 


294 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1845-9. 


Btatcmont  Of  his  Objections,  tl.e  Prcsulont  rctauHnl  >t  m 
his  hands  until  after  the  a.ljournnK>ut  ol  tungress, 
uhereforo  it  did  not  become  a  law.  At  an  early  day  m 
the  ensuing  session,  however,  he  sent  a  special  message 
to  the  House  setting  forth  his  reasons  for  retauung  ho 
hill,  and  Ins  objections  to  its  passage,  Avhich  were  smular 
to  those  stated  in  the  Harbor  and  River  Veto,  but  more 
elaborately  considered,  and  more  fully  ^;Mn-c;s^cd 

In  June,  1847,  Mr.  Polk,  accompanied  by  Mr.  Mason,  r 
.attended   the   commencement   ceremonies   ot    las   Ahua 
Mater,  and  shortly  thereafter  he  made  a  tour  through 
the  middle  and  eastern  states,  extending  Ins  journey  as 
far  as  Portland,  in  the  state  of  Maine.     In  every  town 
and  city  through  which  he  passed,  he  was  welcomed  u. 
.n  appropriate  manner,-such  as  because  the  lugh  olhe 
.vhich  he  held  by  the  suffrages  of  his  countrymen,  ar.u 
«ach  as  became  the  freemet.,  of  all  parties  and  creeds, 
Avho  assembled  to  do  him  honor. 

The  elections  for  members  of  the  tlnrticth  Congress, 
resulted  unfavorably  to  the  administration,  man.ly  uu 
account  of  local  dissensions  in  the  de.noeratic  party  ,n 
the  state  of  New  York.  In  the  House  of  Kepvesei.ta- 
tives,  the  Whigs  secured  a  small  majority.  Ih.s  Cou- 
gres.  convened  for  its  first  session  on  the  bth  of  Dccem- 


ferred  to  tUat  office  on  the  appointment  of  Mr    Banerot  as    n.  n.^ 
K„„and.     NatUan  CUfi^rd,  of  Maine,  -  ^^^  ^H  :^,  wllt:! 
tl„.  nladlof  Mr.  Mason.     In  the  winter  ol  184S,  Mi.  lU"'""  h 

™:n£f :  M^ieo.  and  Isaac  Toucey,  of  Conneetieut   wjs  ^^^^ 
Ceneral.   These  were  the  only  change,  that  took  plaee  m  Mr.  Polk    .abme 


"-^}if.i: 


:.  [1845-9. 

^illont  retained  it  in 
iineiit   of    Congress, 

At  an  early  tiny  in 
!nt  a  special  mussa^o 
ons  for  retaining  tlio 
s,  AvhicU  were  siniiliU' 
liver  Veto,  but  more 
lly  expressed.* 
iriied  by  Mr.  Mason,t 
monies   of  his   Muki 
made  a  tour  through 
ending  liis  journey  as 
aine.     In  every  town 
I,  he  was  weleomed  in 
)ecamc  tlie  higli  ollieo 

his  countrymen,  and 
11  parties  and  creeds, 

iic  thirtieth  Congress, 
inistration,  mainly  uu 
10  democratic  party  in 
House  of  Representa- 
majority.  This  Con- 
i  on  the  0th  of  Decem- 


3  Navy,  ho  having  been  trans- 
'  Mr.  Bancroft  as  iiiiiii'tor  to 
appointed  attorncy-nonenil  in 
MS,  Mr.  Clifford  was  appointeil 
onnecticut,  was  made;  i.ttorn.-y- 
ook  place  in  Mr.  Polk's  cabinet 


ISlo-O.J       VIEWS    ON    THE    DEFENSIVE    POLICY. 


2n; 


her,  18-17.  md  did  not  adjourn  till  the  14th  of  August, 
1S48.  Robert  C.  Winthrop,  of  Massachusetts,  was  sup- 
jiorted  by  the  wiiig  members  for  the  office  of  speaker, 
and  was  elected  on  the  third  ballot,  by  five  majority  over 
Lmn  Boyd,  of  Kentucky,  and  other  democratic  candi- 
dates. Tho  president's  ines.sage  was  delivered  to  the 
tuo  hou.ses  on  the  7th  instant.  Like  all  his  state  papers, 
it  was  an  able  document.  Topics  connected  with  the 
war  occupied  a  prominent  place  in  it,  and  he  repeated 
ins  reconunendation  of  the  former  year  in  regarl  to  the 
manner  in  which  oil'ensive  measures  should  be  prcsccuted. 
it  had  been  suggested  in  many  quarters,  that  it  would 
lie  advisable  to  withdraw  the  American  troops  to  a  de- 
iVn.-ive  line,  which  should  be  occupied  and  hold  until 
-Mexico  sued  for  peace. 

-Mr.  Poik  was  utterly  opposed  to  this  course,  and  ap- 
inove.l  ef  a  decidedly  active  policy.  "  With  the  views  I 
entertain,"  .said  he,  "  I  cannot  favor  the  policy  which 
iias  been  suggested,  either  to  withdraw  our  army  alto- 
gether, or  to  retire  to  a  desifniated  lino,  and  simply  hold 
and  defend  it.  To  withdraw  our  army  altogether  from 
till'  conquests  they  have  made  by  dceijs  of  unparalleled 
bravery,  and  at  the  expense  of  so  much  blood  and  treas- 
ure, in  a  just  war  on  our  part,  and  one  which,  by  the  act 
of  the  enemy,  we  could  not  honorably  have  avoided, 
^vould  be  to  degrade  the  nation  in  its  own  estimation  and 
in  that  of  the  world.  To  retire  to  a  line,  and  simply 
Ijoltl  and  defend  it,  would  not  terminate  the  war.  On 
the  contrary,  it  would  encourage  Mexico  to  persevere, 
and  tend  to  protract  it  indefinitely. 
"  It  is  not  to  be  expected  that  Mexico,  after  refusing  to 


g'j»!i.a.'-Mtiat!M.',',>ii!a^ils^«g?-afej;f^-r 


20G 


JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


[1845-9. 


establish  such  a  line  as  a  permancMit  boundary,  when  our 
victorious  army  arc  in  possession  of  her  capital,  and  in 
the  heart  of  her  country,  would  permit  us  to  hold  it  with- 
out resistance.     That  she  would  continue  the  war,  and 
in  the  most  harassing  and  annoying  forms,  there  can  bo 
no  doubt.     A  border  warfare  of  the  most  savage  charac- 
tor,  extending  over  a  long  line,  would  be  unceasingly 
wa-^ed.     It  would  require  a  large  army  to  be  kept  con- 
stantly in  the  field,  stationed  at  posts  and  garrisons  along 
such  a  line,  to  protect  and  defend  it.     The  enemy,  re- 
lieved from  the  pressure  of  our  arms  on  his  coasts  and  in 
the  populous  parts  of  the  interior,  w.-nld  direct  his  atten- 
tion to  this  line,  and,  selecting  an  isolated  post  lor  attach, 
Avould  concentrate  his  forces  upon  it.     This  would  be  a 
condition  of  afthirs  which  the   lyiexicans,  pursuing  their 
favorite  system  of  guerilla  warfare,  would  probably  prefer 
to  any  other.     Were  wc  to  assume  a  defensive  attitude 
on  such  a  line,  all  the  advantages  of  such  a  state  of  war 
v^-ould  be  on  the  side  of  the  enemy.     We  could  levy  no 
contributions  upon  him,  or  in  any  other  way  make  him 
feel  the  pressure  of  the  war,  but  must  remain  inactive 
and  await  his  approach,  being  in  constant  uncertainty  at 
^vhat  point  on  the  line,  or  at  what  time,  he  might  make 

an  assault.  . 

"He  may  assemble  and  organi^.e  an  overwhelming 
force  in  the  interior,  on  his  own  side  of  the  line,  and, 
concealing  his  purpose,  make  a  sudden  assault  upon  some 
one  of  our  posts  so  distant  from  any  other  as  to  prevent 
the  possibility  of  timely  succor  or  r.infoveements  ;  and  in 
this  way  our  gallant  army  would  be  exposed  to  the  dan- 
ger of  being  cut  off  in  detail ;  or  if,  by  their  unequalled 


[1845-9. 

loundivrv,  ■vvlieti  our 
licr  capital,  and  in 
t  us  to  liold  it  witli- 
>tinuc  tlio  war,  and 
forms,  there  can  bo 
nost  savage  cliarac- 
ald  bo  unceasingly 
my  to  be  kept  con- 
and  garrisons  along 
t.     The  enemy,  re- 
on  his  coasts  and  iu 
iild  direct  his  atten- 
ated  post  for  attack, 
t.     This  would  be  a 
icans,  pursuing  their 
ould  probably  prefer 
a  defensive  attitude 
;  such  a  state  of  war 
We  could  levy  no 
other  way  make  hira 
lust  remain  inactive 
iistant  uncertainty  at 
time,  he  might  make 

ize  an  overwhelming 
ide  of  the  line,  and, 
Ion  assault  upon  some 
ly  other  as  to  prevent 
.'inforcements  ;  and  in 
e  expo.-ed  to  the  dan- 
■,  by  their  unequalled 


1845-9. J       VIEWS    ON    THE    DEFENSIVE    POLICY. 


297 


bravery  and  prowess,  everywhere  exhibited  during  this 
uar,  they  sliould  repulse  tlie  enemy,  their  numbers  sta- 
tioned at  any  one  post  may  bo  too  small  to  pursue  him. 
If  tlio  enemy  be  repulsed  in  one  attack,  ho  would  have 
nothing  to  do  but  to  retreat  to  his  own  side  of  the  line, 
and,  being  in  no  fear  of  a  pursuing  army,  may  reinforce 
himself  at  leisure,_for  another  attack  on  the  same  or  some 
other  post.  Ho  may,  too,  cross  the  line  between  our 
posts,  make  rapid  incursions  into  the  country  which  wo 
hold,  murder  the  inhabitants,  commit  depredations  on 
tliem,  and  then  retreat  to  the  interior  before  a  sufficient 
force  can  be  concentrated  to  pursue  him.  Such  would 
prol)ably  be  the  harassing  character  of  a  mere  defensive 
war  on  our  part. 

"  If  our  forces,  when  attacked,  or  threatened  with 
attack,  be  permitted  to  cross  the  lino,  drive  back  the 
enemy  and  conquer  him,  this  would  be  again  to  invade 
the  enemy's  country,  after  having  lost  all  tiie  advantages 
of  the  conquests  we  have  already  made,  by  having  volun- 
tarily abandoned  thom.  To  hold  such  a  lino  successfully 
and  in  security,  it  is  far  from  being  certain  that  it  would 
not  require  as  large  an  army  as  would  be  necessary  to 
hold  all  the  conquests  we  have  already  made,  and  to  con- 
tinue the  prosecution  of  the  war  in  the  heart  of  the  ene- 
my's country.  It  is  also  far  from  being  certain  that  the 
expenses  of  the  war  would  bo  diminished  by  such  a  policy. 
I  am  persuaded  that  the  best  means  of  vindicating  the 
national  honor  and  interest,  and  of  bringing  the  war  to 
an  honorable  close,  will  be  to  prosecute  it  with  increased 
energy  and  power  in  the  vital  parts  of  the  enemy's  coun- 
try. In  my  annual  message  to  Congress  of  December 
13* 


1 

I 

I 


I 


298 


JAMES    KNOX   POLK. 


[1845--9. 


last,  I  declared  that '  the  war  has  not  been  waged  with  a 
view  to  conquest ;  but  having  been  commenced  by  jNIox- 
ico,  it  has  been  carried  into  the  enemy's  country,  arid 
will  be  vigorously  prosecuted  there,  with  a  view  to  obtam 
an  honorable  peace,  and  thereby  secure  ample  indemnity 
for  the  expenses  of  the  war,  as  well  as  to  our  much  in- 
jured citizens,  who  hold  pecuniary  demands  against 
Mexico.'  Such,  in  ray  judgment,  cbntinues  to  be  our 
true  policy— indeed,  the  only  policy  which  will  probably 
secure  a  permanent  peace. 

"  It  has  never  been  contemplated  by  me,  as  an  object 
of  the  war,  to  make  a  permanent  conquest  of  the  repub- 
lic of  Mexico,  or  to  annihilate  her  separate  existence  as 
an  independent  nation.     On  the  contrary,  it  has  ever 
been  my  desire  that  she  should  maintain  her  nationality, 
and,  under  a  good  government  adapted  to  her  condition, 
be  a  free,  independent,  and  prosperous  republic.     The 
United  States  were  the  first  among  the  nations  to  recog- 
nize her  independence,  and  have  always  desired  to  be  on 
terms  of  amity  and  good  neighborhood  with  her.     Tliis 
she  would  not  suffer.    By  her  own  conduct  we  have  been 
compelled  to  engage  in  the  present  war.     In  its  prosecu- 
tion, we  seek  not  her  overthrow  as  a  nation ;  but,  in  vm- 
dicating  our  national  honor,  we  seek  to  obtain  redress 
for  the  wrongs  she  has  done  us,  and  indemnity  for  our 
just  demands  against  her.     We  demand  an  honorable 
peace ;  and  that  peace  must  bring  with  it  indemnity  for 
the  past,  and  security  for  the  future.    Hitherto  Mexico 
has  refused  all  accommodation  by  which  such  a  peace 
could  be  obtained.     Whilst  our  armies  have  advanced 
from  victory  to  victory,  from  the  commencement  of  the 


[1845--9. 

been  waged  with  a 
[iimencod  by  Mcx- 
uy's  country,  and 
th  a  view  to  obtain 
e  ample  indemnity 
as  to  our  much  in- 
domands  against 
)ntinue3  to  be  our 
'hich  will  probably 

)y  me,  as  an  object 
juest  of  the  repub- 
parate  existence  as 
iitrary,  it  has  ever 
ain  her  nationality, 
cd  to  her  condition, 
JUS  republic.     Tlio 
be  nations  to  recog- 
lys  desired  to  be  on 
od  with  her.     This 
nduct  we  have  been 
ar.     In  its  prosecu- 
nation ;  but,  in  vin- 
k  to  obtain  redress 
d  indemnity  for  our 
imand  an  honorable 
rith  it  indemnity  for 
(.    Hitherto  Mexico 
ivhich  such  a  peace 
nies  have  advanced 
immencement  of  the 


1840-9.J  OREGON    TLURITORIAL    BILL.  O99 

war,  it  has  always  been  Avith  the  olive-branch  of  peace  in 
tliur  IkukIs  ;  and  it  lias  been  in  the  power  of  Mexico,  at 
every  step,  to  arrest  hostilities  by  aeceptin^r  it." 

The  President  again  earnestly  reconnnen.led  tlie  in- 
nvase  of  the  army.  IL,  advised  that  ten,i,orarv  t.Tri- 
t-vial  orovernni.'.its  sluMild  be  establislied  i,,  Caliluruii 
and  New  Mexico,  an.l  that  a  pennanent  sovenan.nt 
sliould  be  provided  Cor  Ore^r,.-,,. 

But  few  acts  of  nvneral  intn-est  wrrr  i.assed.     A  ,n-r-,t 
part  of  the  session  was  lakc^n  up  with  the  diseussiun  ol'  tl,e 
war  measures,  which  were  ren<lere.l  unnecessary  by  the 
conclusion  of  the  treaty  of  peace.     A  loan  of  sixteen  mil- 
lions  of  dollars,    however,   was   authorized.      When    the 
war  b.lls  were  un.lcr  consi^leratl-.n,  a  warm   collateral 
debate  sprun^^  up  i„  the  House,  upon  the  refusal  to  com- 
n.un.cate  to  that  body  all  the  diplomatic  correspondence 
with  Mr.  Slidell.    The  President  thought  the  public  inter- 
est requn-ed  that  the  correspondence  should  not  be  made 
public,  and  he  decline.1  acceding  to  the  recp.est,  in  con- 
formity to  the  example  of  Washington  with   r.spect  to 
the  Jay  treaty  in  llW,  and  that  of  John  Quincy  Adams 
in  relation  toUe  Panama  mission.* 

In  pursuance  of  the  recommendation  of  the  President, 
a  bill  providing  a  territorial  government  f.>r  Oregon  was 
introduced  at  an  early  period  of  the  session.  °I,i  the 
House,  the  Wilmot  Proviso  was  again  brought  forward, 
and  attached  to  this  bill,  the  supporters  and  advocates  of 
that  measure  adhering  to  it  with  singular  pertinacity, 
though  so  often  defeated  in  the  attainment  of  their  objec't. 
The  Senate  for  a  long  time  refused  to  permit  the  passage 

*  Spcoiii]  Mossago  of  President  I'(.Ik,  .Tanuary  12,  1848. 


T  ^j'SJ.'Ugif '''■"-'-l.^jW'-*' 


i'-^^'.'-'.  ..{.^■jiL-g-anrr^— .^"3 


300 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1845-9. 


of  the  bill,  with  this  provision  forming  r^^'*  of  '^-  '^^ 
len.rth  a  sufficient  number  of  senators  yieUiea  to  the  ne- 
cessity which,  as  Mr.  Polk  also  thought,  reriuire.l  that 
the  territorial  government  shouhl  be  organ.zea  without 
a.lay.     The  bill  was  then  passed,  with  the  W  ihuot  1  ro- 

viso  attached.  .         ^ 

Mr.  Polk  did  not  regard  this  Proviso  as  a  violation  ol 
the  constitution,  and  he  therefore  aHixed  his  name  to  the 
bill.     But  ho  was  opposed  to  the  Proviso,  and  agitation 
of  the  slavery  question,  and  d.eply  lamented  that  section- 
al feelings  and  animosities  sliouhl  be  so  needlessly  en- 
kindled and  aroused.     In  his  message  to  the  same  Con- 
gress, at  the  suece;-dlng  session,  lie  referred  to  this  .ines- 
tion,  as  efforts  ha.l  heun  made  at  the  session  of  IS-l.-S 
to  incorporate   the  Proviso  in   territorial  bills  f<n-  New 
Mexico  and  California  by  which  they  had  been  defeated, 
and  expressed  his  views  in  clear  and  forcible  term-*.     ''  It 
h  our  solemn  dutv,"  he  said,  "to  provide,  with  the  least 
pvactirable  delay,  for  New  Mexico  and  California,  regu- 
larly organized  territorial  governments.     The  causes  of 
the  failure  to  do  this  at  the  last  session,  aye  well  known, 
and  deeply  to  be  regretted.     With  the  opening  prospects 
of  increased  prosperity  and  national  greatness  which  the 
acquisition  of  these  rich  and  extensive  territorial  posses- 
sions affords,  how  irrational  it  would  be  to  forego  or  to  re- 
ject these  advantages,  by  the  agitation  of  a  domestic 
question  which  is  coeval  with  the  existence  of  our  govern- 
ment itself,  and  to  endanger  by  internal  strifes,  geo- 
graphical divisions,  and  heated  contests  for  political  pow- 
er, or  for  any  other  cause,  the  harmony  of  the  glorious 
Union  of  our  confederated  States ;  that  Union  which  binds 


[1845-9. 

ing  part  of  it.  At 
•9  yicliieil  to  the  nc- 
juglit,  vequirod  tTiat 
JO  orgiinizeil  without 
rith  the  Wilmot  Pro- 

iviso  as  a  violation  of 
lixoil  his  name  to  tlio 
iwlm,  and  agitation 
hiiiientod  that  section- 
be  so  needlessly  e\i- 
v'O  to  the  same  Con- 
refen-ed  to  tliis  (inos- 
the  session  of  IS-IT-S 
•ritovial  hills  f<n'  New 
lov  had  been  defeatoil, 
,d  forcible  terni^.     "  It 
provide,  with  the  least 

0  and  California,  regu- 
ments.  The  causes  of 
jssion,  aje  well  known, 
h  the  opening  prospects 
lal  greatness  which  the 
nsivo  territorial  posses- 
iild  be  to  forego  or  to  re- 
[1  citation  of  a  domestic 

1  existence  of  our  govcrn- 
y  internal  strifes,  geo- 
ontests  for  political  pow- 
larmony  of  the  glorious 
;  that  Union  -which  binds 


1840-9.J  THE   sr.AVF.RY   questiov. 


301 


U-*  tugother  as  one  people,  and  which  for  sixty  years  Iiiis 
been  our  shield  and  protection  against  every  danger.  In 
thecyes  of  the  world  and  of  posterity,  how  trivi:."  and  in- 
significant will  he  all  our  internal  divisions  and  strnix-los 
compared  with  the  preservation  of  this  Union  of  the  Suites 
in  ail  its  vigor  and  with  all  its  countless  blessings  !  ^u 
patriot  would  foment  and  excite  geographical  amrsectlon- 
al  .hvisions.  No  lover  of  I,is  country  would  ddiborately 
calculate  the  value  of  the  Union. 

"  Future  generations  woul.l  look  in  auiazenieut  upon 
such  a  course.     Other  nations  at  the  present  day  w<.uld 
look  upon  it  with  astonishment ;   nnd  such  of  them  as  de- 
sire to  maintain  and  perpetuate  tiiiones  and  monarchical 
or  aristocratical  principles,  will  view  it  with  exultation 
and  delight,  because  in  it  tliey  will  see  tiie  elements  of 
faction,  which  they  hope  must  ultimately  overturn  our 
system.     Ours  is  the  great  example  of  a  prosperous  an.l 
free  self-governed  republic,  commanding  the  admiration 
an.l  the  nnitation  of  all  the  lovers  of  freedom  throughout 
the  world.     How  solemn,  therefore,  is  the  duty,  how  im- 
pressive the  call  upon  us  and  upon  all  parts  of  our  coun- 
try, to  cultivate  a  patriotic  spirit  of  liannony,  of  goo.l 
fellowship,  of  compromise  and  mutual  concession,  in  the 
administration  of  the  incomparable  system  of  government 
formed  by  our  fathers  in  the  midst  of  almost  insuperable 
difficulties,  an.l  transmitted  to  us  with  the  injunction  that 
we  should  enjoy  its  blessings  and  hand  it  down  unimpair- 
ed to  those  who  may  come  after  us  ! 

"  In  view  of  the  high  an.l  responsible  duties  which  wo 
owe  to  ourselves  an.l  to  mankind,  I  trust  you  maybe  able, 
at  the  present  session,  to  approach  the  adjustmpnt  of  the 


i 


i 


80: 


JAMES    KNOX    I'OLK. 


[184.)-0. 


only  domestic  question  whicli  seriously  threatens,  or  pm- 
l)al)ly  ever  can  threaten,    to  disturb  the  Iiariuouy  and 
successful  operation  of  our  system.     Tlie  iuiniensely  vid- 
uahle  possessions  of  New  Mexico  and  California  are  al- 
ready inhabited  by  a  considerable  population.     Attracted 
bv  their  great  fertility,  their  mineral  wealth,  their  com- 
niercial  advantages  and  the  salubrity  of  the  clinmte,  enii- 
.qants  from  tlie  older  States,  in  great  nunil)e:'s,   are  al- 
ri  inly  preparing  to  seek  new  homes  in  tlioe  invitmg  re- 
gions.    Sliall  the  dissimilarity  of  the  domestic  institutions 
in  the  different  States  prevent  us  from  providing  tor  them 
suitable  governments?     Tliese  institutions  existed  at  the 
ailoplionof  llie  constituthm,  but  the  obstacles  which  they 
interposed  were  overcome  by  that  spirit  of  compromiso 
which  is  now  invoked.     In  a  conllict  of  opinions  or  of  in- 
terests, real  or  imaginary,  between  different  sections  of 
our  country,  neither  can  justly  demand  all  \\hich  it  might 
desire  to  obtain.     Each,  in  the  true  spirit  of  our  institu- 
tions, should  conced(!  something  to  the  other. 

"  Our  galliint  forces  in  the  Mexican  war,  by  whoso 

],alriotisin  and  unparalleled  deeds  of  arms  wo  obtained 

these  possessions  as  an  indemnity  for  our  just  demands 

against  Mexico,  Averc  composed  of  citizens  who  belonged 

to  no  one  State  or  section  of  the  Union.     They  were  men 

from  slaveholding  and  non-slaveholding  States,  from  the 

North  and  the  South,  from  the  East  and  the  West.  They 

■were  all  companions  in  arms  and  fellow-citizens  of  the 

same  common  country,  engaged  in  the  same  common 

cause.     When  prosecuting  that  war,  they  were  brethren 

and  friends,  and  shared  alike  with  each  other  common 

toils,  dangers  and  sufferings.    Now,  when  their  work  is 


[1845-9. 

y  threatens,  or  pro- 
I  till"  'lariiioiiy  and 
'rhoiiuiuenscly  v;il- 
il  CJalirurnia  iiro  al- 
lulatiiMi.     Attracti'il 
1  wealth,  tlich'  coin- 
of  thi"  cliiuato,  ciiii- 
it  imnihe'.'s,   aro  al- 
\n  tliL'M,"  invithig  vo- 
doincstic  institutions 
in  proviJinfi;  tor  i\\vm 
Aitions  existed  at  ilio 
obstacles  which  they 
spirit  of  conipromiso 
of  opinions  or  of  in- 

difl'erent  sections  of 
md  all  which  it  might 

spirit  of  our  inslitu- 
le  other, 
^ican  war,  by  -whoso 

of  arms  wc  obtained 
or  our  just  deniamls 
citizens  who  belonged 
ion.  They  were  men 
ding  States,  from  the 
and  the  West.   They 

fellow-citizens'  of  the 
in  the  same  common 
ir,  they  were  brethren 
I  each  other  common 
r,  when  their  work  is 


18|.)-0.J  TIIK    Sr-AVKIIY    Ql'I-.STIO\. 


803 


'■"drd,  when  peace  is  restor.Ml,  i.nd  tliey  return  again  to 
their  liomes,  put  oft'  the  habiliments  <'f  war,  take  their 
places  in  society,  and  resume  their  pursuits  in  civil  lilV, 
surely  a  spirit  of  harmony  and  concession,  ;ind  of  i<|iial 
regard  for  the  rights  of  all  and  of  all  sections  of  tin' 
Union  ought  to  prevail  in  providing  governments  for  tlio 
acpiired  territories— the  fruits  of  their  cmmon  service. 
'  The  whole  people  uf  the  United  States  and  of  every  State 
contributed  to  defray  the  expenses  of  that  war,  and  it 
would  not  be  just  for  any  one  section  to  e.xelude  another 
from  all  participation  in  the  ac(piired  territory.  This 
would  not  be  in  consonance  with  the  just  sy.stein  of  gov- 
ernment which  the  framers  of  the  constitution  a.Iopted. 

"  The  (|uestion  is  believed  to  be  rather  abstract  than 
practical,  whether  slavery  ever  can  or  would  exist  in  any 
l)ortion  of  the  acrptired  territory,  even  if  it  were  left  to 
the  option  of  the  slaveholding  States  themselves.  From 
the  nature  of  the  climate  an(i  productions,  in  much  the 
larger  portion  of  it,  it  is  certain  it  could  never  exist ;  jind 
in  the  remainder,  the  probabilities  are  it  would  not.  IJut 
however  this  may  be,  the  rpiestion,  involving,  as  it  does, 
a  principle  of  eijuality  of  rights  of  the  separate  and  sev- 
eral States,  as  o.pial  co-partners  in  the  confcderacv, 
should  not  be  disregarded. 

"  In  organizing  governments  over  those  Territories,  no 
duty  imposed  on  Congress  by  the  constitution  requires 
tliat  they  should  legislate  on  the  subject  of  slavery,  while 
then-  power  to  do  so  is  not  oidy  seriously  questioned, 
but  denied  by  many  of  the  soundest  expounders  of  that 
instrument.  Whether  Congress  shall  legislate  or  not, 
the  people  of  the  acquired  Territories,  when  assembled 


nrsw 


801 


JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


[1845-9. 


in  c.mvcntioii  to  form  State  constitutions  will  possess  tlio 
H.l(«  an.l  ("xclusivo   power    to   determine  f.,r  themselves 
vlu'ther  slavery  sl.all  or  sliall  not  exist  within  their  limits. 
If  Congress  shall  abstain  from  interfering  with  the  (lues- 
li,,,,,  the  people  of  these  Territories  will  be  left  free  t.> 
a.linst  it  as  they  may  think  proper  when  they  apply  tor 
a,lu.ission  as  Stat.'s  into  the  Union.     x\o  enactment  of 
C:..n-ress  conhl  restrain  the  people  of  any  of  the  sovereign 
States  of  the  Union,  ohl  or  new,  north  or  south,  slave- 
hol.ling  or  non-slavehoUling,  from  .letermining  the  char- 
acter of  their  own  domestic  institutions  as  they  may  deem 
^vise  an.l  proper.     Any  ami  all  the  States  possess  this 
vi.'ht,   and  Congress  cannot  deprive   them  ot    it.      Ihe 
people  of  Georgia  might,  if  they  chose,  so  alter  their  con- 
stitution as  to  abolish  slavery  within  its  limits  ;  an.l  the 
people  of  Vermont  might  so  alter  their  constituti.m  as  t.> 
admit  slavery    within    its   limits,      iioth    States   would 
possess  the  right  ;  th.,ugh,  as  all  know,  it  is  not  probable 
that  cither  woul.l  exert  it. 

"  It  is  fortunate  f..r  the  peace  an.l  harm.)ny  of  the  Union 
that  this  question  is  in  its  nature   temporary,  and  can 
only  continue  for  the  brief  period  which  will  intervene 
before  California  and  New  Mexico  may  be  a.lmitted  as 
States  into  the  Union.     From  the  tide  of  population  now 
ilowin-  into  them,  it  is  highly  prohal)le  that  this  will  soon 
occur."  C.nsidering  the  several  States  an.l  the  citizens  of 
the  several  States  as  e.pials,  an.l  ontitle.l  to  c-jual  rights 
under  the  constitution,  if  this  were  an  original  question, 
it  mirrht  well  be  insisted  on  that  the  principle  of  non- 
interference is  the  true  doctrine,  and  that  Congress  could 
not,  in  the  absence  of  any  express  grant  of  power,  inter- 


:.  [1845-9. 

Diis,  will  possess  tlio 
iiim'  I'l-r  tliomsflvi'S 
t  witliin  tlii'ir  limits, 
uriii}^  with  the  {[wn- 
,  will  be  loft  free  to 
ivhoii  they  apply  for 
.     No  enactment  of 
■  any  of  the  sovereign 
)rth  or  south,  slavc- 
letennining  the  char- 
ms lis  they  may  deem 
;  States  possess  this 
u  tliem  of  it.     The 
se,  so  alter  their  con- 
11  its  limits  ;  and  the 
loir  constitntiim  as  to 
Both    States   would 
o\v,  it  is  not  probable 

harmony  of  the  Union 
)  temporary,  and  can 

which  will  intervene 
0  may  be  admitted  as 
tide  of  population  now 
iljle  that  this  will  soon 
ites  and  the  citizens  of 
•utitled  to  C(iual  rights 
3  an  original  fpiestion, 
the  principle  of  non- 
ud  that  Congress  could 

grant  of  power,  inter- 


1S4'>-0.J  TUK    KVII.    AXI)   TirK    IlEMKDY. 


305 


IVre  witli  their  relativ(>  rights.  Upon  ^  ^rj-^.-it  emergency, 
however,  and  under  menacing  dangers  to  tlio  Union,  the 
Missoiu-i  compromise  lino  in  respect  to  slavery  was 
adopted.  Tiie  same  line  was  extended  furtiier  west  in 
the  ae(|uisition  of  Texas.  After  an  aciinicscence  of  nearly 
thirty  years  n  the  principle  of  compromise  recognized 
and  establisl'jd  by  these  acts,  and  to  avoid  the  danger  to 
the  Union  wh'cli  niiglit  follow  if  it  were  now  disregarded, 
I  have  heretofore  expressed  the  opinion  that  that  line  of 
compromise  should  be  extended  on  the  parallel  of  thirty- 
six  degrees  thirty  minutes  from  the  westero  boundary  of 
Texas,  where  it  now  terminates,  to  the  Pacific  Ocean. 
This  is  the  middle  ground  of  compromise,  upon  which 
the  difTerent  sections  of  the  Unluu  may  meet,  as  they 
liave  heretofore  met.  li'  this  be  done,  it  is  confidently 
lielieved  a  largo  majority  of  the  people  of  every  section 
of  the  country,  however  widely  their  abstract  opinions  on 
the  subj-et  of  slavery  may  differ,  would  cheerfully  and 
jiatriotically  acquiesce  in  it,  and  peace  and  harmony 
Mould  again  fill  our  borders. 

"  The  restriction  north  of  the  lino  was  only  yielded  to 
in  the  case  of  Missouri  and  Texas  upon  a  principle  of 
compromise,  made  necessary  for  the  sake  of  prescrvin'^ 
the  harmony,  and  possibly  the  existence  of  the  UnionT 
It  was  upon  these  considerations  that  at  the  close  of  your 
last  session,  I  gave  my  sanction  to  the  principle  of  the 
Missouri  compromise  line,  by  approving  and  signing  the 
bill  to  establish  '  the  Territorial  government  of  Oregon.' 
From  a  sincere  desire  to  preserve  the  harmony  of  tho 
Union,  and  in  deference  for  the  acts  of  my  predecessors, 
I  felt  constrained  to  yield  my  acquiescence  to  the  extent 


•wrr«x«rs5^SwT313p! 


800 


JAMI.S    KNOX    VOUK. 


[lMo-0. 


to  ^vl.ich  tl.oy  h.i.l  goMO  in  ..on.i.n.n.lHin-  tl...  -Vlu-ato  ai.l 
,l„„„,v.ms  ..iiosf......     nut  if  Con^'iv".  h1.=v11  now  rcwrs. 

tl,o"l.H.isiou  I.v  ^^J.■u•h    tl.o    Missouri    compronnso  v.h 
HlVot..!,  un.l  si;.ll  propose  to  cxt.tul  th.  rostrict.on  ov..,- 
tlM.  wholo  territory,  south  as  well  ns  north  ot  th.  parall.l 
of  thirty-six  (h-n'M  thirty  mintitos,  it  will  (vase  to  he  a 
,„u,proniiso,  ana  must  he  .v.'.raea  a.  an  original  aues- 
liou.    If  Conj^ress  instead  of  ohs.'rving  the  course  of  non- 
iut.rferenco,  leavinj^  the  adoption  of  their  own  .lomestic 
institutions  to  the  people  who  n^.ay  inhabit  tl.e.e  lernto- 
t.n-ie9;  or  if,  instead  of  ext.-,.lin.  the   Missouri  conipro- 
,nise  line  to  the  P.oific,  shall  pi>4Vr  to  suhn.it  the  legal 
an.l  constitutional  questions  which  mny  arise  to  tho  deci- 
sion of  the  jn-lieiiil   tribunals,  as  was  proposed  in  a  bill 
,vhieh  passed  the  Senate  at  your  last  session,  an  ad,usl- 
,nent  inay  be  enVeted  in  this  mode.     If  the  whole  sub.^'C 
1,„  ,or..rr;d  to  the  judieiary,  all  parts  of  the  Union  shoul- 
cheerfully  acpiiesee  in  the. final  decision  of  the  tribunal 
created  by  the  constitution  for  the  settlement  of  all  .lues- 
tions  which  may  arise  nr.der  the  constitution,  treaties, 
nnd  laws  of  the  United  States.     Congress  is  earnestly 
invoked,  for  the  sak.,'  of  tho  Union,  its  harmony,  and  our 
continued  prosperity  a.  a  nation,  to  adjust  at  |ts  preseni, 
session  this,  the  only  dangerous  .lue.stion  which  lies  m 
our  path-if  not  in  some  one  of  the  modes  suggested,  m 
M.me  other  which  may  be  satisfactory." 

The  national  democratic  convention  assembled  at  lial- 
tiinore,  in  May,  iSiS,  to  nominate  a  candidate  to  succeed 
Mr  Polk  in  the  chair  of  state.  In  compliance  with  the 
determination  expressed  at  the  time  of  his  acceptance  of 
the  presidential  nomination  in  1844.  Mr.  Polk  decUaeu 


i. 


[184; 


-0. 


1816-9.J         THE    PIU  SIDENTIAr.    EfcKCXIOH. 


807 


lii'^  lliis  (Icliciitc  ami 
«H  uluill  iiiiw  rt'Vi-rsi' 
iri    cimipromiHo  WM 
I  tlic  rostrieti'iii  over 
north  of  tho  i)ivrallil 
,  it  will  (HMHO  to  be  si 
a^  an  original  quos- 
iiijT  tlic  course  of  non- 
,f  their  own  domestic 
iihabit  tlic.'^o  Territo- 
\[0  Missouri  coiiipro- 
r  to  suliinit  tho  U'j^al 
nay  arise  to  the  deci- 
vas  proposed  in  a  bill 
st  session,  an  adjiisl- 
If  tluMvhole  subject 
Ls  of  the  Union  hIiouM 
■cision  of  the  tribuunl 
iL'ttlenient  of  all  ([ucs- 
coiistitution,  treaties, 
(■)on"res9  is  earnestly 
its  harmony,  nu.l  our 
o  iidjust  at  its  present, 
ijuestion  which  lirs  in 
le  modes  suggested,  in 
ory.' 

tion  assembled  at  Bal- 
a  candidate  to  succeed 
n  compliance  with  tho 
10  of  his  acceptance  of 
544,  Mr.  Polk  decUaed 


permitting  ids  name  to  bo  ii^ain  brought  fof  s'  ■jrd  as  a 
candidate,  in  an  appropriate  letter,  addressed  to  a  mem- 
ber of  tho  convention  from  his  own  state. 

WASiiiNOTnN  CiTV,  May  19,  |H|I| 

Dear   Sia — From  Hjieculations  wliiclj   luivo  appeared  in 
some  of  llie   public  journalsi,  and  from   fn-ipu'iit    iiuiuirii  .i 
wiiioli  liavt!  been  made  of  nic,  by  many  jiolitical  fri.'uds,  some 
of  them  delegates  to  the  Democratic  National  Convention, 
which  will  assemble  at  naitiniorc  on   the   2'2d  instant,  I  am 
induced  to  suppose  that  it  may  be  the  desire  of  some  of  my 
iiieiids  to  propose  my  renoniination,  as  the  candidate  of  the 
J)einocratio  party,  for  the  olllc(!  of  President  of  the  United 
Slates.     Should  you  ascertain  that  such  is  the  intention  of 
any  of  the  delegates,  I  desire,  througii  you,  to  communicate 
to  the  (VrnventioM  that  1  am  not  a  candidate  for  llie  nomina- 
tion, and  tliat  any  uso  of  my  name  with   tiiat  view,   wiiicli 
may  be  contemplated,  is  without  any  agency  or  desire  on  my 
])art. 

The  purpose  declaicd  in  my  loiter  of  the  l'2th  of  .Tune, 
ISH,  in  accepting  the  nomination  tendered  tp  me  by  the 
Democratic  National  Convention  of  that  year,  remains  un- 
•  lianged  :  and  to  relieve  the  Convention  from  any  possible 
embarrassment  which  "  the  suggestion  of  my  n'ame  might 
})roduce  in  making  a  free  selection  of  a  successor  who  may  be 
best  calculated  to  give  elfect  to  their  will,  and  guard  all  the  in- 
terests of  our  beloved  country,"  I  deem  it  proper  to  reiterate 
tlu^  sentiments  contained  in  that  letter.  Since  my  election,  I 
have  often  expressed  the  sincere  desire,  which  1  still  feel,  to 
retire  to  private  life  nt  the  close  of  my  present  term. 

I  entertain  the  confident  hope  and  belief  that  my  democratic 
friends  of  the  convention  will  unite  in  the  harmonious  nom- 
ination of  some  citizen  to  succeed  me,  who,  if  elected,  will  firm- 
ly maintain  and  carry  out  the  great  political  principles  intro- 
duced in  the  resolutions  adopted  by  the  Democratic  National 


808 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1845-0. 


Convention  in  1844-pvincirles  .vhich  •t  h-b  ^  Lc    a.n 
endeavor  and  the  constant  aim  of  my  '^'i™'-  ';^^^,^;i    , 
s.rvc  and  pnr«ue-and  upon  th^  observance  ot  ^^1^'^  >'  > 

opinion,  mai.'.y  depend  the  prosperity  and  permanent  .elia,. 

^r::::^::^i".  the  history  of  my  admin^uati.. 

n.narkable  events,  foveign  and  domestic.  -'-'^  '  ^  ^  \  ^ 
od  it  it  slndl  be  the  judgment  of  my  countrymen  that  1  u  u 
1  ;  d  to  these  principles  and  faithfully  performed  my  dut  . 
measure  of  my  ambition  is  full,  and  I  am  .leeply  eomp-n- 
Z^t  all  tl,e  labors,  cares,  and  anxieties  .h.ch  are  ,ns._  - 
u  be  from  the  hi-M,  station  ^vhich  I  have  been  called  to  1,11. 
^'tll;r:•;^ch^•lsh  sentiments  of  deep  ^-atitu^^ 

fellow-citizens  for  the  confidence  they  reposed  m  mc,  m 
!i;  me  to  the  most  distinguished  and  responsible  pubhc 

*tn:";iynecessarythat  I  should  add,  that  it. miK> 
„o  less  my  dutv  than  it  .mU  be  my  sincere  pleasure,  ns  a  u  ■■ 
Zl,  to  unite  with  my  democratic  friends  m  ^1-  -^>o  o 
the  nominees  of  the  convention,  for  the  offices  o.  1  .e.-du  t 
ltd  vte-Pre.ident  of  the  United  State.  ^^  Uh  great  respect, 
1  am  your  obedient  servant,  ^^^^^_^  j-   p^, ,,_ 

ToDb.  J.C.  M.  Kamsfa-. 

There  wore  t^vo  sots  of  delegates  from  the  State  of 
New  York,  elalming  seats  in  the  Convention     Ihat  bo  y 
refused  W  decide  between  tuem,  and  admitted  bo  h  d. I- 
e..vtions.     Not  content  ^vith  this  detennumt.on  of  tne 
Question,  one  of  the  delegations,  who  favored  the  .ncor- 
l-ntion  of  the  Wilmot  Proviso  into  the  tei-ritor.albi.h-, 
etiredfrom  the  convention ;  they  afterward  umted  wUh 
a  portion  of  the  whigs,  and  the  great  body  o    th       o 
liUonists,  and  nominated  and  supported  Mr.  \an  Unn 
fo  President,  and  Charles  F.  Adams,  of  Massachnsett., 


,K. 


[1845 


-9. 


it  hiis  been  tl.e  carnost 

iidmiiiist ration  to  jne- 

rvance  ot  which,  in  my 

and  permanent  weharo 

admmistration,  and  the 
tic,  -ft-hicli  have  attend- 
countrymen  that  1  have 
illy  performed  my  duty, 
id'l  am  deeply  comiuMi- 
xieties  which  are  insi  p- 

have  been  called  to  till. 
'  deep  gratitude  to  my 
V  reposed  in  me,  in  de- 

find  responsible  publi(- 

n\\(\  add,  that  it  will  ho 
lincere  pleasure,  ns  a  cil- 
ends  in  the  support  of 
r  the  offiees  ot  Prei-ident 
ites.    With  great  respect, 

Jami-s  K.  roi.K, 

tcs  from  the  State  of 
Convention.  That  body 

and  admitted  both  del- 
s  determination  of  the 
who  favored  tlic  incor- 
into  the  territorial  bids, 
■y  afterward  united  witli 

great  body  of  the  abo- 
iportcd  Mr.  Van  Bureri 
dams,  of  Massaclmsett?:, 


1845-9.1 


LAST    MESSAGE. 


309 


f>r  Vice-Presidoiit.  'I'his  disaffection  extended  through 
ni'.st  of  tlio  northern  States,  whereby  the  democratic 
party  lost  Pennsylvania  and  New  York,  but  gained  tlio 
Stat.'  of  Oliio.  Genera!  Cass,  the  nominee  of  the  Balti- 
more Convention,  was  defeated  by  the  whig  candidate, 
(iei.era:  Zachary  Taylor,  wlmso  popularity,  aecjuired  hv 
means  (T  tlie  very  war  which  liis  supporters  condenmeci, 
elevated  Iiim  to  the  presidential  chair,  although  the  elec- 
tions for  members  of  Congress  resulted  in  the  choice  of  a 
majority  unfriendly  to  liis  administration. 

Congress  assembled  for  the  Inst  time  during  the  ad- 
ndnistrati.m  of  Mr.  P.,!k,  on  the  -ith  day  of  December, 
1S4S.     The  most  important  subject  then  agitating  the 
public  miml,  was  that  growing  out  of  the  VVilmot  Proviso, 
and  hence  the  opinions  of  Mr.  P.dk  upon   tliis  subject, 
whi(,h  have  been  before  pi-esonted,  were  ma<le  known  in 
his  annua!  message.     His  vetoes,  too,  lia-l  been  attacked, 
in  some  of  tlie  northern  and  western   States,  with  great 
asperity,  and  an   ellbrt  to  amend  tlie  constitution,  so  as 
to  deprive  t!,c  executive  of  this  power,  was  said  to  be  in 
contemplation.     He  thoreftire  availed  liimself  of  the  oc- 
casion to  defend  and  vindicate  liis  course,  and  to  express 
his  views  in  opposition  to  tlie  amendment  of  tlie  constitu- 
tion, in  the  following  terms  : — 

"  It  is  not  doubted,  tliat  if  tliis  whole  train  of  measures,  fa 
high  protective  tariff,  a  national  bank,  etc.,]  designed  to  talio 
wealth  from  the  many,  and  bestow  it  upon  the  few,  were  to  pre- 
vail, the  effect  would  be  to  change  the  entire  character  of  the 
government.  Only  one  danger  remains.  It  is  the  seductions  of 
that  branch  of  the  system,  which  consists  in  internal  improve- 
ments, holding  out,  as  it  does,  mducements  to  the  people  of 


SIO 


JAMES    KNOX    -OI.K. 


[1845-1> 


particular  sections  and  localities  to  embark  the  <rover.m,ent  .n 
them  .vithout  stopping  to  calculate  the  inevitable  eon.se- 
,,uences.  This  branch  of  the  system  is  so  mtimately  com- 
I'iued  and  linked  with  the  others,  that  as  surely  as  an  Hie.- 
is  produced  bv  nn  adequate  cause,  if  it  be  resusc.tat.  .1  and 
reviv.d,  and  firmly  established,  it  requires  no  sagacity  to  tor- 
s,...  that  it  will  necessarily  and  speedily  draw  after  it  th.^ 
reest..blishment  of  a  national  bank,  the  revival  ..f  a  protective 
taritr,  the  distribution  of  the  land  money,  and  not  only  the 
postponement  to  the  distant  future  of  the  payment  ol  the  . 
present  national  debt,  but  its  annual  increase. 

1  entertain  the  solemn  conviction,  that  if  the  internal  im- 
provement branch  of  the  "  American  system"  be  not  i.rmly 
ivsisted  at  this  tim»",  the  whole  series  of  measures  composing 
it  will  be  speedily  reestablished,  and  the  country  be  thrown 
back  from  its  present  high  state  of  prosperity,  which  the  cxist- 
in.r  policy  has  produced,  and  be  destined  again  to  witness  all 
the  evils,  commercial  revulsions,  depression  ol  i)nces,  and 
pecuniary  embarrassments,  through  which  we  have  passed 
during  the  last  twenty-five  years. 

To  guard  a«'ainst  consecjuenccs  so  ruinous,  is  an  f>l>j"ct, 
of  high  national  importance,  involving  in  my  judgment  the 
continued  prosperity  of  the  country.  .  , ,    , , 

I  have  felt  it  to  be  an  imperative  obligation  to  withhold 
mv  constitutional  sanction  from  two  bills  which  had  pass-td 
th'e  two  houses  of  Congress,  involving  the  principle  of  the 
internal  improvement  branch  of  the  "  American  system,    and 
conflicting  in  their  provisions  with  the  views  here  expressed. 
This  power  conferred  upon  the  President  by  the  constitu- 
tion, I  have  on  three  occasions,  during  my  adntimst  ration  of 
tlie  executive  department  of  the  government,  deemed  it  luy 
duty  to  exercise ;  and  on  this  last  occasion  of  making  to  Con- 
,n-ess  an  annual  communication  "of  the  state  of  the  Tnion, ' 
"t  is  not  deemed  inappropriate  to  review  the  principles  and 
considerations  which  have  governed  my  action.     I  deemed 


[1845-9. 

X  the  govertiinent  in 
i   incvit.iblc    coiisc- 

so  intimati'ly  ci>iu- 
i  surely  as  an  ell'cct 
Ik;  resuscitated  aiul 
i  nosnifaoity  to  fore- 
,•  draw  after  it  tlie 
'vivalol'  a  iiroteclive 
:,  and  not  only  i!k' 
tho  payment  of  the 
ease. 

;  if  the  internal  im- 
stem"  be  not  iirnily 
measures  compo.-inij,- 

eountry  be  thrown 
rity,  which  tlie  exist- 
1  again  to  witness  all 
'ssion  of  i)riees,  and 
ich   we   have   passed 

•uinous,  is   an   object 
in  my  judgment  the 

bligation  to  withhold 
ills  which  had  pasf?ied 

the  principle  of  the 
.merican  system,"  and 
views  here  expressed, 
ident  by  the  constitu- 

my  administration  of 
•nment,  deemed  it  my 
sion  of  making  to  Con- 
■  state  of  the  Tnion," 
■lew  the  principles  and 
my  action.     I  deemed 


1840-O.J 


LAST    MESSAGE. 


811 


this  the  more  necessary,  bernuse,  after  tho  lapse  of  nearly  sixty 
years  since  the  adoption  of  the  constitution,  the  propriety  of 
the  exercise  of  this  undoubted  constitutional  power  by  the 
I'resident,  has  for  the  first  time  been  drawn  seriously  in  ques- 
tion by  a  portion  of  my  fellow-citizens. 

The  constitution  provides 'that  "  every  bill  which  shall  have 
passed  the  House  of . Representatives  and  the  Senate,  shall, 
before  it  become  a  law,  be  presented  to  the  President' of  the 
1  imed  States  :  if  he  approve  he  s/>all  sign  it,  but  if  not  he 
*/w//  return  it  with  his  objections,  to  that  house  in  which  ii 
shall  have  originated,  who  shall  enter  the  objections  at  lar-^e 
on  their  journal  and  proeeed  to  reconsider  it."  '^ 

The  preservation  of  the  constitution  from  infraction  is  the 
President's  highest  duty.    He  is  bound  to  discharge  that  dutv 
(it  whale^er  hazard  of  incurring  the  displ,.;,Mu-e  of  th„s,.  wl'm 
may  difler  with  him  in  opinion,      lie  is   l^.und   to   discharge 
It,  as  well  by  his  obligations  fo  the  people  who  have  clotl,rd 
him  with  his  exalfd  trust,  as  l,v  his  oath  of  oHi.'e    wiiioh  he 
may  not  disirgard.      Nor  are  the  obli-atioas  of  the  I'res|,i..p( 
m  any  d,.gree  lessened  l,^•  the    prevalence   of   views    diin.,eet   ' 
Irom  his  own  m  one  or  |„,th   lious,.s   ,,f   Cungivss.      it  is  ,.„t 
alone  hasty  and    in,M,„si,!,-rate   h-i-jaiion  ,hat  he  is   ivquirei 
to  check  ;   but  if  al  any  lane  (■,>ng,.ess  shall,  af.er  ap,,aren(lv 
lull  deliberation,  r..s,>lve  on   measures  uliid,   he  deems  suh- 
vorsive   of  the  constitution,   or  of  the  xitai    interests  of  (he 
country,  it  is  his  solemn  duty  to  siaiul   in  the  breach  and  re 
Mst  them.   The  President  is  hound  ,o  approve,  or  disapprov.. 
every  bill  which  pas.ses  Congress  and  is  pivsentinl  to  hin.  f,,,' 
his  signature.     The  cons,i;u;io:i  makes  this  his  dutv,  and  he 
cannot  escape  it   if  he   would,      lie  h.s  no  .-lection"      In  de 
ciding  upon  any  bill  presented    to   him,   he  must  crercise  his 
own  best  judgment.      If  he  cannot  approve,  (he  constitution 
commands  him  to  retu-n  ihe    l,;il    to   the    House   in  which  it 
originated,  with  his  objections  ;  and  if  he  fail  to  do  this  with- 
m  ten  days,  (Sunday  excepted,)  it  sh.HlI  become  a  law  without 


Jl 


312 


•JAMES    KNOX    POLK. 


[lS-45-9. 


his  sisrnature.     Right  or  wrong,  ho  may  be  overrul«l  by  n 
vote  of  two-thirds  of  e:ich  I  louse ;  and,  in  that  event,  tlie  bill  bo- 
comes  a  law  without  his  sanction,    if  l>is  objections  be  not  thus 
overruled,  the  subject  is  only  postponed,  and  is  relerred  to 
the  States  and  the  people  for  tiieir  consideration  and  d.^nsion. 
The  President's  power  is  negiai*e  merely,  and  not  alhrma- 
tive.     He  can  enact  no  law.     Tin-  only  effect,  therelore,  of 
his  withholding  his  approval  of  a  bill  passed  by  Congress   is 
to  suffer  the  existing  laws  to  remain  unchanged,  and  the  dc- 
lay  occasioned  is  only  that  required  to  e.mble  the  States  and 
the  people  to  consider  and  act  upon  the  subject  m  the  elec- 
tion of  a.'ents  who  will  carry  out  their  wishes  and  instructions. 
Any  attmpt  to  coerce  llie  Presi.lent  to  yield  his  sanction  to 
measures  which  Ik-  cannot  a],p.-ve,  would  be  a  violation  ot 
the  spirit  of  the  constitution,  pali.:ible  and  ilagraiit :  and  it 
successful,  would  break  .lown  tin-  iiul.pendence  of  tiie  exec- 
utive department,  and   make  the  1'resi.lont,  elected  by  the 
people,  and  clothed  bv  th;>  eonslitn  ion  with  power  to  defend 
their  ri>--hts,  the  instrument   of  a   inajority  of  Congress.     A 
surrender,  on  his  part,  of  tlie  i.-^v.  ■  witii  which  the  constitu- 
tion has  invested  Ins  olli..'.  would  .  r-ct  a  practical  alteration 
of  that  instrument,  witiioat  rcso;t;,,g  to  the  prescribed  pro- 
cess of  ameiidnient. 

With  the  motives  or  considerations  which  may  induce  v  on- 
cress  to  pass  anv  bill,  the  Presid.-nt  can  have  nothing  to  d... 
Ik-  must  presume  them  to  be  as  pure  as  his  own,  and  look 
only  to  the  practical  .  If. --t,  of  their  measures  when  compared 
with  the  constiiu:ioa  or  :'.••  public  good. 

l?ut  it  has  been  uig.' 1  oy  those  woo  object  to  the  exercise 
of  this  undoubted  constitutional  power,  that  it  assails  the  rep- 
resentative principle  and  llie  capacity  of  the  people  to  gove.a 
themselves  ;  that  there  is  greater  saf.v  v  in  a  numerous  repre- 
sentative body  than  in  the  single  lA.cntive  created  by  ti.e 
constitution,  and  that  t!u.  executive  v.:o  is  a  "one-man  pow- 
er," despotic  ia  iia  cluivaeler.     To  expose  the  fallacy  of  tins 


IwfpiT'  '^■r;^AV.--»'H-..~<'. ' 


[18-ly-9. 


184O-0.J 


LAST    MKSSAGE. 


318 


y  be  overruled  by  n 
lilt  event,  the  bill  bo- 
ijeclioiis  bf  luit  thus 
,  ami  is  relerreil  to 
iTiition  and  decision. 
.:ly,  and  not  atfinna- 

effect,  tlierelore,  of 
ised  by  Congress,  is 
hanged,  and  the  de- 
mble  the  States  and 

subject  in  the  elec- 
ihes  and  instructions, 
yield  bis  sanelion  to 
iild  be  a  violation  of 
and  ilagrant;  and  if 
endenee  of  tiie  exec- 
lent,  elected  by  the 
ivith  i)Ov,er  to  defend 
rilv  of  Congress.  A 
h  which  the  coiistitu- 
a  practical  alteration 
1)  tlie  prescribed  pro- 

liich  may  induce  Con- 
n  have  nothing  to  do. 
as  his  own,  and  look 
sures  when  compared 
1. 

object  to  the  exercise 
that  it  assails  the  rep- 
f  the  people  to  govei;\ 
■  in  a  numerous  repre- 
•cutive  created  by  tiie 
o  is  a  "  oac-nr.ra  pow- 
lose  the  fallacy  of  tiiis 


'objection,  it  is  only  necessjiry  to  consider  the  frame  and  true 
character  of  our  system.  Ours  is  not  a  consolidated  empire, 
but  a  confe<lerated  Union.  The  vStatcs,  befoie  tiie  adoption 
<>t  the  constitution,  were  coordinate,  coifjual,  and  separate  in- 
(li'jRMuient  sovereignties,  and  by  its  adoption  Ihey  did  not  lose 
ihat  chariu'ter.  'I'iicy  clothed  the  federal  government  with 
certain  powers,  and  reserved  all  others,  including  their  own 
sovereignty,  to  themselves.  They  guarded  liicir  own  rigiit,s 
as  Slates  and  the  rights  of  the  peo))le.  by  the  very  limitations 
uhich  they  incorporated  into  the  federal  constitution,  whereby 
the  diilereiit  departments  of  the  general  government  were 
rlic'cks  ujion  each  other.  Thai  liio  majority  should  govern, 
is  a  gineral  principle,  controverted  by  none ;  but  thev  must, 
govern  according  to  the  constitution,  and  not  according  to  an 
inidelined  and  unrestrained  discretion,  wlierehy  they  may  np- 
jiress  the  minorilv. 

The  people  of  ilie  United  Slates  are  not  blind  to  tlie  fact 
that  they  may  be  icaiporaiily  misled,  and  that  their  represen- 
tatives, legislative  and  executive,  may  be  mistaken  or  influ- 
enced in  their  action  by  improper  motives.  They  have,  there- 
fore, interposed  between  themselves  and  the  laws  which  may 
be  passed  by  their  public  agents,  various  representations ; 
such  as  assemblies,  senates,  and  governors  in  their  several 
States ;  a  House  of  Representatives,  a  Senate,  and  a  Presi- 
dent of  the  United  Strifes.  The  people  can  by  their  own  di- 
r.'ct  agency  make  no  law  ;  nor  can  the  House  of  Representa- 
tives, innnediately  elected  by  them ;  nor  can  the  Senate;  nor 
can  both  together,  without  the  concurrence  of  the  President, 
or  a  vote  of  two-thirds  of  both  houses. 

Happily  for  themselves,  the  people,  in  framing  our  admira- 
ble system  of  government,  were  conscious  of  the  infirmities  of 
their  representatives ;  and,  in  delegating  to  them  the  power 
of  legislation,  they  have  fenced  them  around  with  checks,  to 
guard  against  the  efTects  of  liasty  action,  of  error,  of  combina- 
tion, and  of  possible  corruption.  Error,  selfishness  and  faction 
14 


814 


JAMES    KNOX   POLK. 


fl84;j-9. 


have  often  sought  to  rend  asunder  this  web  of  checks,  and 
subject  the  government  to  the  control  of  fanatic  and  sinister 
influences ;  but  these  eftorts  have  only  satisfied  the  people  of 
the  wisdom  of  the  checks  which  they  have  imposed,  and  of 
the  necessity  of  preserving  them  unimpaired. 

Tlie  tniftlicory  of  our  system  is  not  to  govern  by  the  acts 
or  decrees  of  any  one  set  of  representatives.     The  constitu- 
tion interposes  ciiecks  upon  all  branches  of  the  government, 
in  order  to  give  time  for  error  to  be  corrected  and  delusion  to 
pass  away  ;  but  if  the  people  settle  down  into  a  firm  convic- 
tion different  fiom  that  of  their  representatives,  they  give  ef- 
fect to  their  opinions  by  changing  their  public  servants.    'I'lie 
checks  which  tlie  people  imposed  on  their  public  servants  in 
the  adoption  of  the  constilulion,  are  the  best  evidence  of  their 
capacity  for  self-government.      They  know  that  the   men 
whom  they  elect  to  public  stations  are  of  like  infirmities  and 
passions  with  themselves,  uml  not  to  be  trusted  without  bfinu' 
restricted  by  coordinate  auth;ii-ities  and  coilstitulional  liiuau- 
tions.     Who  that  has  witnessed  the  legislation  of  Congre.vs 
for  the  last  thirty  years  will  say  that  he  knows  of  no  instance 
in  which  measures  not  demanded  by  the  public  good  iiave 
keen  carried?     Who  will  deny  that  in  the  State  govern- 
ments, by  combinations  of  individuals  and  sections,  in  deroga- 
tion of  the  general  interest,  banks  have  been  chartered,  sys- 
tems of  internal  improvement  adopted,  and  debts  entailed 
upon  the  people,  repressing  their  growth,  and  impairing  their 
energies  for  years  to  come  '? 

After  so  much  experience,  it  cannot  be  said  that  absolute 
unchecked  power  is  safe  in  the  hands  of  any  one  set  of  rep- 
resentatives, or  that  the  capacity  of  the  people  for  self-gov- 
ernment, which  is  admitted  in  its  broadest  extent,  is  a  conclu- 
sive argument  to  prove  the  pmdence,  wisdom,  and  integrity 
of  their  representatives. 

The  people,  by  the  constitution,  have  commanded  the  Presi- 
dent, as  much  as  they  have  commanded  the  legislative  branch 


mi MJMt.....-^^-m,  ...ki;,ji^..s^iii»iffiwaW^^^*V''*v^^,«^W'i-^  >gg,Kigg%a^e»fc«rife'i^ 


[1845-9. 


1S45-0. 


LAST  mi;ssa(;k. 


815 


web  of  checks,  nnd 
fanatic  nnd  sinister 
tisficd  the  people  of 
ivc  imposed,  and  of 
red. 

0  govern  by  the  acts 
;ivcs.     The  constitu- 

1  of  the  government, 
(cted  and  delusion  to 
■n  into  a  firm  convic- 
itatives,  they  give  ef- 
)ublic  servants,  'i  ln> 
ir  public  servants  in 
best  evidence  of  their 
know  that  the  men 
jf  like  infirmities  and 
trusted  without  beinr; 
constitutional  liinlla- 
^rislation  of  Congress 

knows  of  no  instance 
le  public  good  have 
n  the  State  govern- 
id  sections,  in  deroga- 
been  chartered,  sys- 
,,  and  debts  entailed 
li,  and  impairing  their 

be  said  that  absolute 
of  any  one  set  of  rep- 
e  people  for  self-gov- 
;st  extent,  is  a  conchi- 
wisdom,  and  integrity 

commanded  the  Presi- 
the  legislative  branch 


of  thegovormnciit,  U>  rxmitt'  tlirlr  will.  Thry  li.'ivc  said  Id 
him  ill  tiie  eoiisliuuioii,  wliich  llu'V  rt'iiuii-i'  ii'' sli:ill  take  a 
KulriniioiUh  to  support,  thai  if  ('oii;;aTs-;  na>-.  ;my  liili  which 
he  I'luniot  apprnvr,  "hi'  ^hill  ivluiii  it  l>i  th.'  ilou-c  in  ulii.li 
it  oriii-iiiali'ii,  with  his  obji'c lions."  In  wit!ihi»liliii;j;  iVoni  it 
his  iipproval  and  si-iialun-,  he  is  fx.'niliiig  the  will  of  i!i.> 
]>r(iiili'  coiistilulionally  I'XjMOM  (I,  as  iinu'h  as  the  CiMrj.av-s 
that  passi'd  it.  No  Mil  is  pn-uiiu'd  to  br  in  aci;urilani;i'  wilii 
tlie  popular  will  until  it  shall  ha\e  passrd  throuL?h  all  the 
braiirhes  (if  the  govcrnnnMit  riMpiired  by  the  eonstilulion  to 
make  it  a  law.  ;\  Itill  which  pa.scs  ihc  iiuuso  of  Ucprescn- 
t.itives  may  be  nj.'clcd  by  the  S.aialc;  and  so  a  bill  passed 
by  the  Senate  may  be  rejected  by  the  House.  In  each  ease, 
the  respective  houses  e.xercise  the  veto  power  on  ihc  oilier. 

Congress,  and  each  House  of  ("onL;-ie>s,  hold  under  the  con- 
stitution a  chock  upon  the  I'lesident,  and  be,  by  the  power 
of  the  (|ualiti(Hl  veto,  a  check  upon  Congress.  When  the 
President  recommends  measures  to  Congress,  he  av(jws,  in 
the  most  solenm  form,  his  opinions,  gives  his  voice  in  their 
favor,  and  pledges  himself  in  advance  to  approve  them  if 
passed  by  Congress.  If  he  acts  without  due  consideration, 
or  has  been  inlluonced  by  improper  or  corrupt  motives— or 
if,  from  anv  other  cause.  Congress,  or  eitiier  House  of  Con- 
gress, shall' differ  with  liiin  in  opinion,  they  exercise  their  vvto 
upon  his  recommendations,  and  reject  them;  and  there  is  no 
appeal  from  their  decision,  but  to  the  peoph;  at  the  ballot- 
bo.x.  These  are  proper  checks  upon  the  Execiitivc  wisely  in- 
terposed by  the  constitution.  None  will  be  found  to  object 
to  them,  or  to  wish  them  removed.  It  is  equally  important 
that  the  constitutional  checks  of  the  Executive  upon  the  legis- 
lative branch  should  be  preserved. 

If  it  be  said  that  the  representatives  in  the  popular  branch 
of  Congress  are  chosen  directly  by  the  people,  it  is  answered, 
the  people  elect  the  President.  If  both  houses  represent  the 
States  and  the  people,  so  does  the  President.     The  President 


■^EfP^^J^KE^^^SP^ 


816 


JAMF.3    KNOX    POLK. 


[181.J-0. 


represents  in  the  executive  deimitiumt  ill.;  wliole  proj.l,.  ..f 
tlir  rnitctl  suites,  as  e;u;l»  nienilxT  of  llie  lc;^'isliitive  dcpail- 
nieiit  rc|in'siMils  ixulions  uf  llieni. 

Til,.  (l.,clrii\es  nl  icstnelioii  upon  le.i^nsliilive  iiiul  exerullvci 
power,  Willi..  11  well-.M.tll.Ml  j)uhlu.  opinion  is  eiiableil  wiliiiu  a 
ivaMaiaijle  lime  to  a/coinpli^li  il-  .'IkIs,  l.a,  made  our  country 
wiiat  il  is,  and  lias  op.ai..d  V>  us  a  career  of  glory  and  hai-pi- 
ness  to  which  all  other  nalions  iia\*i  been  slrani^'.'rs. 

in  the  exercise  of  the  pi)wcr  of  tie:  veto,  ili.'.  President  i^ 
iTspoiiMl.le  not  oidy  to  an  .•nVighten.al  pnhlie  opinion.  1ml  lo 
the  people  of  the  whole  Tnion,  who  elected  him,  as  ihc  rep- 
resentatives in  the  legislative  liranchcs,  who  ditVer  witii  him 
in  oj.inion,  are  n-sponsihle  to  the  peoi)le  of  particular  Hlatys, 
or  districts,  who  compose  their  res|)ective  constituencies.  To 
deny  to  tiie  President,  tlie  exerciser  of  this  power,  would  he  to 
repeal  tlial  provi>ion  of  the  constitution  which  confers  it  upon 


iiini.     To  charge 


that  its  exercise  undulv  controls  the  legisla- 


(ive  will,  is  to  eom|)hiin  of  the  constitution  itself. 

If  the  presidential  veto  be  objected  to  upon  tin;  ground 
that  it  checks  and  thwarts  the  public  will,  upon  the  same 
principle  the  eciuality  of  representation  of  the  States  in  the 
Senate  should  be  stricken  out  of  the  constitution.  The  vote 
of  il  Senator  from  Delaware  has  equal  weight  in  deciding 
upon  the  most  impoi'ant  measures  with  a  vote  of  a  Senator 
fioni  New  York  ;  and  yet  the  one  represents  a  State  contain- 
ing, according  to  the  e.visting  apportionment  of  representa- 
tives in  the  House  of  Representatives,  but  one  thirty-fourth 
part  of  the  population  of  the  other.  By  the  constitutional 
composition  of  the  Senate,  a  majority  of  that  body  fl-om  the 
bnialler  States  represents  less  than  one-fourth  of  the  people 
of  the  Union.  There  are  thirty  States ;  and,  undir  the  exist- 
ing apportionment  of  representatives,  there  are  two  hundred 
and  thirty  members  in  the  House  of  Representatives.  Six- 
teen of  the  smaller  Slates  are  represented  in  that  House  by 
but  fifty  members ;  and  yet  the  Senators  from  these  States 


I'M,  j^:-iata.!ga>-'tf  t«J5-<j4"e!Mg<«>tt»!^'i!fe^-  ■sf»'* 


i-,m^T!;_- 


^S^^IBi?;^-*'  ■.■^'  - 


^K. 


fl8l.J-9. 


■lit   IIk.'  wlioli'   pi'OJili'  (il 

■  lilt;  lc;^'isl!itive  ilt'pait- 

I'L^isliilivc  iiiid  cxoculivd 
1111(111  is  I'liabkiil  witliiu  ii 
s,  lias  miidt'  our  country 
i-ccr  of  glory  ami  hapiii- 
K'lMi  slraii^iM's. 
u;  veto,  I  he,  I'lvsldriil  is 
(1  jiuljUc  oiiiiiiipa,  luit  lo 
t'lccli'd  liim,  as  ihc  rrp- 
u's,  who  ditlV'r  with  him 
pie  of  particular  States, 
i-tivK  couslituoni'ii's.  To 
this  power,  would  be  to 
all  which  confers  it  upon 
duly  controls  the  legisla- 
lution  itself. 

ted  to  upon  the  ground 
blic  will,  upon  the  saini; 
on  of  the  States  in  tlie 
'  constitution.  The  vole 
(pud  weight  in  deciding 
ivith  a  vote  of  a  Senator 
presents  a  State  cont.ain- 
rtioiunent  of  reprcscnta- 
js,  but  one  thirty-fourth 
r.  By  the  constitutional 
y  of  that  body  fk-om  the 
[jne-fourth  of  the  people 
,es ;  and,  und'ir  the  exist- 
\s,  there  are  two  hundred 
jf  Representatives.  Six- 
iscnted  in  that  House  by 
nators  from  these  States 


161.VJ.J 


i<.v.sT  Mi:siJ.\c;i:. 


017 


(■i>ii<titute  a  Miajiirity  of  the  i'enate.  ^'o  that  the  I'lvsident 
may  recDniniend  a  measure  to  Congress,  and  it  may  reeiive 
the  sanction  and  ap|)idval  of  more  than  three-fourths  of  the 
House  of  Representatives,  and  of  all  the  senators  from  llii! 
large  States,  containing  more  than  three -fourths  of  tiie  whole 
population  of  the  I'nited  States;  and  yet  the  measure  may 
be  defeated  by  the  vines  of  the  Senators  from  llie  smaller 
Stales.  None,  it  is  presumed,  can  bi^  found  ready  to  change 
the  organization  of  the  SeiiaU;  on  this  aceouat,  or  to  strike 
lliJit  body  practieallv  out  of  existence,  by  reipiiiing  thai  its 
aclioii  shall  be  conformed  to  the  «ill  of  the  moic  iiuiiieiMpus 
branch. 

I'pon  tlie  same  principle  tliat  the  veto  of  the  I'loidcnt 
slumld  be  practically  abolished,  the  power  of  the  \'icc-l'rc.-,i- 
delit  to  gi\e  the  ca>tiiig  \ote  uiion  an  e(piai  (li\  isioii  of  tlii! 
Senate  should  lie  abolislied  also.  i  he  \iie-l're»i(lent  e.\er- 
cisi's  the  M'to  |iower  a^  ellrctiially  by  rejecting  a  iiill  by  his 
easting  vote,  as  tlu;  I'resideiil  docs  by  ri'ru>ing  to  approve 
and  sign  it.  iriiis  power  has  been  exercised  by  the  \'iee- 
I'resident  ill  a  lew  instances,  ilie  most  important  of  which  was 
the  rejection  of  the  bill  to  recharier  the  IJank  of  the  I'nited 
Slates  in  ISll.  It  may  ha]ipen  that  a  bill  nia\-  be  passed  iiv 
a  large  majority  of  the  House  of  Kepresentativcs,  and  may 
be  supjiorted  by  the  seiialors  from  the  larger  Slates,  and  the 
N'icel'resident  mav  reject  it  bv  uivinif  his  vote  with  the  seiia- 
tors  from  the  smaller  States;  and  yet  none,  it  is  presumed, 
ai-e  ]irepared  to  deny  to  him  the  exercise  of  this  power  under 
the  constitution. 

Ijut  it  is,  in  point  of  fact,  untrue  that  an  act  passed  bv 
Congress  is  conclusive  evich'iice  that  it  is  an  emanation  of  the 
popular  will.  A  majority  of  the  whole  number  ekjled  to 
each  house  of  Congress  conslilules  a  (piorum,  and  a  majority 
of  that  ((uorum  is  competent  lo  pass  laws.  It  might  happen 
that  a  ([uorimi  of  the  Ibuise  of  Kepresentatives,  consistiii"-  uf 
a  blngle  uieiuber  luore  than  half  of  the  w  Jiole  number  elected 


V$--iX--aK-a4St/«':t^|iiiS-?!S^«'  ■- 


818 


jAMT.s  KNOX   rni.K. 


[t84r)-0 


to  ,lmt  lum.^  mi,la   ps.  .  1.11  l.y  Y-M-'y  "^  ,    ;'^^ 
vo.,^:uulin.lmt.^ts.MvtVa>Mioun.np.,h:u....■•    .u.h         1. 

,,,,l,.of  ,l..l^ut.aS.:tt.swouUl..-n.i.:v..,U,.l   l.•.l;•- 
;L..na,i.fn.n.usis..n.hS,.t...lir;ly.-,o.svot- 
,vrr,.r  it  lw.ii,>.'n.-.l  to  1„.   frun,  tlu.  ..i;.l.t  ot     h.  su.all..  m 

\l'..n,aU  anil  ..-..unin,  l^s  ,lnu  on.-.x.i-.h  o     1  u 

,,ati  a    ollu.tnuo  Uu.ra.;.U.a.!u.  >m..vi,:,s.,,,M,  a  iHlll. 
('t.v.s  is  no  .wluslv.  c-vKliMu..  th:a  tl..^.  «1   •  F--.1   .' 

,,K,vlU-t  Hum  will.  If  su.h  >m  cxUvm- .ms.  .s  not  hkeU 
:lLn,ca...  lh.a  a,p-xi,n:Ui.  itaroor  .oustanto.ou,■- 
:„;'^ti..K■li-HMluUnu^aMn,U.ia^vlK.    ..vn,^^^^^^^^ 

, ,...  the   adopti-iu  ,.f  .1.1'   i-i.ns.lt...io...  upin   winch  all    .1 
;     n,bc-r.  el.....:.d  .o  l-th  hnu-s  l.avo  boon  preseut  am    vut-L 
M         oftln.uK.stian>o..an.a.whichhavcpas.ed^-.^ 

l,,vc"bocn  carried  bv  a  dos.  vuH"  u.  tlu.v  hous.s.     Man      . 
«.ofthis,nigbtbo,iv.n.     '^'f  •--i;;™;''        ^ 
U.U  avu.v  of  the  most  impovtant  act.  uK  on:.,.  >.    .  ■   P 

n  .1  .o\h.-  last  davs,  ami  often  the  last  hoars  ..t  a  ..  -    on. 
ponid  to  Ih.   la>l  aaN   ,  ,  bv  house  .  buL  lutle 

^vlu■n  thev  an'  disposed  of  ni  ha>ti  ,  auu     . 
,,x<.,vding  the  number  necessary  to  lorm  a  .piouim 

iesid^s  in  most  of  the  States  the  members  of  the   nou>. 

f  remisentalives  are  chosen  by  pluralities,  and  not  by  ,ua- 

-'oTd   the  voters  in  their  respective  districts ;  and  , 

^7       ',   t     t  •   nvtioritv  of  that  House  may  be  returned 

r^S^;'^.t: -o^'t^^e  people  than  that  received  b, 

"If  ^'principle  insisted  on  be  sound,  then  the  constitution 
sholldbesocianged  that  no  bill  shall  become  a  taw  unle.s 


,K 


[t84r)-0 


is4r)-n.j 


r.AST    MKSSAIU;. 


■Ad 


.  ihnii  ,,ni'-l'uurtli  <if  [he. 
,,.  i-«'i>iv->'iili'il   I'V  ''*"-'■ 
tliiil  111''  >-:iini'  liill  ini'j;lil. 
ii  ([iioviiin  iif  11  Si'iiMlc, 
■n  siivillt  r  SUUfs,  mill  :i 
,  aivl  if  til''  st'ualoi's  vot- 
(.iuht  of   th''  siiiallrsi  of 
h,.  votfsol"  Si'imtr.f^  I'l""ll1 
tilivr-i   ill   till!   ll"ll-^i'   (if 
tli^uK'iu'-sixti't'iitli  <>r  thi^ 
,.,.      This  (•;'  -I'mi'  t'iiM-  is 
nirrc  imsv,:..;.  i.'.'ii  hill  hy 
ihil  th"^'-'  ^^1'  '  l'''--'"l   ''" 

,  ,,f    llir  ruiU'il  SiHl.'S,  "1- 

fxtrcini'  i':w  i«  ""t-  lil»>'iy 
it  lu-f.  of  (Mmstiint  (K'jur- 
nj^rli!  law  ha:i   l.r.Mi  ius>ed 
itii)!!,  iipjii  which  111!  tli'"- 
vc  bfoii  present  and  votvcl. 
hicli  have  passed  Con^n  ess 
in  thin  houses.     Many  in- 
leed.ourexpei-iencc  proves 
irts  of  CoriMTess  are    pon- 
tile last  hours  of  a  session, 
,>,  and  l>y  b.ousc-,  but  lillh' 
)  form  a  (pii>runi. 
Llu!  meiubevs  of  the    House 
pluvalitios,  and  not  by  ma- 
respective  districts;  and  it 
lilt  House  may  bo  returned 
eople  than  that  received  by 

sound,  then  the  constitution 
1  shall  become  a  law  unless 


it  is  vnU'd  for  by  ]aeml)ers  representiii:,'  in  each  House  a  ma- 
jorfiy  of  ihe  wiioje  pciiple  111'  liie  Ciiiii'd  Sta!.'-;.  We  must 
ri'  iiiodel  our  whole  sysleai,  strike  down  and  aholish  not  oiilv 
the  salniary  eiiecks  lodged  in  the  e\rculi\i'  branch,  but  must 
strike  out  and  aiioji-li  tho>e  Iodi;'ed  in  the  .Senal,!  also,  and 
lliiu  practically  iiivr^i  the  whole  power  of  ihc  irovernmeiii  in 
a  majority  or  a  siu'^'le  assembly— iv  majority  uiicouirolli.d  ami 
;•'  '  I'",  and  which  may  become  despotic.  To  eout'orm  t.. 
I  hi-  dociriue  ol'  llie  li^lit  of  uiaj  irilii'^  lorule,  iiidipeiideiil,  of 
the  eh.'cks  and  liaiilaiions  of  ili"  i'oii-,iiiii!i()ii,  vv  niu,!.  r.'vo- 
liilioiiize  our  whoi  •  -_,  •■'M.  W,-  uiu-.i  destrov  the  eonsiitu- 
lional  conipacl  by  which  ilie  several  .-^lales  a;.;ivi'il  to  form  a 
fi'dcnl  I'liioa,  and  ni--h  into  eousolidalioii,  which  must  end  iu 
nioiiiM'chy  or  despotism.  No  nuc  ad\()caies  such  a  propo-i- 
tion;  and  yet  the  doeirinu  maintained,  if  carried  out,  must 
lead  to  this  result. 

One  n-reat  object  of  the  constitution  in  eonferrinif  upon  tho 
J'le.-ideut  a  (jualilied  negative  upon  the  legislation  uf  L'on'i-re>s, 
was  to  protect  minorities  t'roni  injustice  and  oppression  by 
majoiities.  The  inpialily  of  their  representation  in  tho  .Senate, 
and  the  veto  power  of  the  President,  ane  tlu;  coiistitutioual 
guaranties  whii.'h  the  smaller  .States  hiive  that  llieir  rights  will 
be  respected.  Without  these  guaranties,  all  their  intere-ts 
wicald  be  at  the  mercy  of  majorities  in  Congress  represemin"- 
l!ie  largi'r  States.  To  the  smaller  .and  weaker  .States,  there- 
I'ore,  the  preservation  of  this  power,  and  its  exercise  upon 
proper  occasions  demanding  it.  is  of  vital  importance.  Thev 
r.nilied  the  constilulion,  and  entered  into  the  I'liion,  securing 
to  themselves  an  erpial  representation  with  the  larger  States 
in  the  Senate  ;  and  they  agreed  to  be  bourul  by  all  laws 
jiassed  by  Congress  upon  the  express  condition,  and  nono 
I ''her,  that  they  should  bo  approved  by  the  President,  or 
passed,  his  objections  to  the  contrary  notwithstanding,  bv  a 
vote  of  two-thirds  of  both  Houses.  Upon  this  condition  ihev 
have  a  right  to  insist,  as  a  part  of  the  compact  to  which  they 
gave  their  assent. 


-^«^'s=»--'i^i'- w^^^^^^V ---; 


■■i*msMv**«vu-iV4-. 


rr^T: 


820 


JAMK.S    KNOX    I'OI.K. 


fl84:)-0. 


„,:,:::;;^::;;;:x:,;^s;:;;n:;i;:::^:- 

.l.,„.in(l  tint  th."  I'r.'Hulnit  sh.ai  .  n  k.m    iu 

La..-  tl.is  i-nw.T.  nr  fail  to  .'X.Mvis,.  .t  iM  .v  o..^"  ^  lu.t  IH. 

:  :n'i:a..uiai.it.ifav.^^^^^^^ 

„„1   „,;.    diss-alin..;   Stale  nvouI.I   Ikvomu-    l.oau.l   h)    a    law 

^'•'^i^^S-tion  to  t, ..,.eiscofthovHo,ow..vis(;a.a.l...l 

T  ..tin-  the  Dopular  Nvilhvi.i'h.  if  -•am.'.l  out. 

jo.t.-a  to  laws  to  «1>ich  thoy  haa  ...vor  ,.v.n  thu.  umstUa 

tional  consent.  .^^^.^^^^.j  ^^,^^^^ 

'I'l.n  "SiiiM-iMiip  I  null  ot   ilu'  I  uutu  >  ii">^ 

u,,:;:::'::.- , •--;:;;-•, -.ij^c 

;       J'r  U.,.  cnslimli,,,.  of  tl,U  ».k„o,vk,lsca  p;.w,.r-  « 
pir,,''L«y  rf,ko  to  its  i„d..,v..J»"  «."'  '!■«  "S""  of 

-    "'tr'"h»'.»mo  .»„n  that  .1..    K„c>..,vo  veto  should,  .c 


uCo«k 


,uso 


U    roe' 


,tv«inH  the  le<rislative  and  executive  will,  and  be- 


?0I.K. 


flS4.--0. 


1H45-0.J 


LAST   MESSAOF.. 


821 


rcHS  ai,min>*t  llu'  will  <'f  tl"' 
,  an.l  !i-:iin>l  111"  N-lr.  y.' 
^■..H.      IlDWfViT  invjiiilie'ial 

Stuto,  it  would  Im-  \m\w\ 
,  il,  ,ir  it  should  '■'■  l>i>^>'''l 
UHcs;  Iml  it  has  a  ri'^lit  to 

i-xc-rcisi-  his  constitutioiiid 
•nt  is  n|,'iunst  it.  If  li''  i^ui- 
vise  it  in  11  «i>''  wluTc  lio 
lis  formal  iiiiiiruvid  u  nicro 
•iollltloll  of   llir  .■oiislitution. 

iKVomc    lioinid    liV  :i    bw 
icJiiijf  Id  llui  >,uiclioi\  of  ill" 

,f  ihi'  veto  |i.)\v('r  is  fouiidfd 
iliir  willwhi'h.if  i'i»n'i»'d.,ut. 
•,ity.  iiml  subslitut.!  for  llu- 
isoiidiUioii,  directed  hyiisup- 
cvolutiou  of  the  t^oveniiueut 
1  the  Still. s  would  be  suh- 
il  never  L;iven  their  cunstilu- 

Jnited  States  is  invested  with 
s  dochired,  acts  of  Congress 
the  Semite,  the  House  of  llei)- 
of  the  I'lesldent,  to  he  uneou- 
noni',  it  is  iiivsumcd,  can  h" 
slrii.  this  lii-hest  judicial  trih- 
this  acknowledged  power-  iv 
idei.endcnce  and  the  rights  of 

:1„  Executive  veto  should,  ivc- 
Imd.be  rendered  inigiitory  and 
the  constitution,  this  power  of 
;red  nugatory  and  be  expunged, 
,tive  and  executive  will,  and  be- 


cause til"  rrise  of  sinh  a  power  by  the  court  may  be 
regarded  u>  !»  ing  in  contlicl  with  the  ca|iacily  of  the  peopin 
to  govern  themselves.  Indeed,  there  is  more  reason  for 
striiiing  this  power  of  the  cmirt  from  the  eimslitiiljdn  than 
there  is  that  of  the  (|ualilieil  veto  of  the  I'rr-ulcnt;  because 
the  dci-ision  of  the  court  is  final,  and  can  ne\cr  in!  reversed, 
even  though  both  houses  of  ( 'ongress  and  the  I'residcnt  should 
]»•  tinnnimous  in  op]ii)sition  to  it;  whereas  the  veto  i,(  die 
['re^idfiit  uiay  bo  ovi  iruled  by  ii  vote  of  two-thirds  of  both 
hoie^i  s  of  Congress,  or  by  the  people  at  the  polls. 

It  is  ob\i()us  that  to  preserve  the  sy-tem  established  by  tlie 
eoiislilulion,  e.ich  of  liu^  eooidinate  ln'anches  of  the  goveiii- 
nieiU  — tlu!  exei'iilive,  h'gij-latlvc,  and  judicial- must  be  left 
ill  the  t'xercisc  of  iis  ajipiopriate  powers.  If  the  exeoiilive 
of  tln' jiulicial  111  iiii'li  be  di'jirived  of  jiowers  coiifcrreil  upon 
eillicr  as  thccks  on  the  legislati\'e,  the  |iicponderance  of  the 
hitler  will  1^'come  di>propoitioiiale  and  absorbing,  and  the 
others  impotent  for  the  accomplishment  of  the  great  objects 
for  which  they  were  Lvstablished.  Organized  as  they  are  by 
the  constitution,  they  woik  together  harmoniously  for  the  pub- 
lic good.  If  the  executive  and  tlu^  judiciary  shall  bi^  deprived 
of  the  constitutional  powers  invested  in  tliem,  and  of  their  due 
]iro[)ortions,  the  ecjuilibrium  of  the  system  must  he  destroyed, 
and  consolidation,  with  the  most  pernicious  results,  must  en- 
Mie — a  consolidation  of  unchecked,  desjiotic  power  exorcised 
by  majorities  of  the  legislative  brancli. 

The  executive,  legislative,  and  judicial,  each  constitutes  a 
separate  coordinate  department  of  the  government,  and  <'acii 
is  iiulepiMulent  of  the  others.  In  the  performance  of  their 
respectivi!  duti.'s  under  the  constitution,  neither  can,  in  its 
legliiniat('  action,  control  the  others.  They  each  act  ujion 
their  Several  responsibilities  in  their  respective  spheres  ;  but 
if  the  doctrines  now  maintained  be  correct,  the  executive  must 
become  practically  subordinate  to  th"  legislative,  and  the  ju- 
diciary must  become  subordinate  to  both  the  legislative  and 
14* 


tt.. 


"— ^^SSSi^^li^S^S^^SKiSJS^BSSSS^RS^SS" 


T^  "#.'fi"i«*ft«**?^.*3-^H'i:"^': 


822 


JAME3    KNUX.    POLK. 


[1845-9. 


the  executive  ;  and  thus  tl>c  whoh>  puwor  of  the  government 
,vouW  be  merged  in  a  single  department.  Wh.neu.r, .  ever, 
this  .hall  occur,  our  .glorious  system  of  w..ll-regula  ed  sc=ll- 
o-overnment  ^vill  c:run>!,le  into  ruins -to  be  succeeded  hrst 
'by  anarchv.  and   iinally  by  n.onarcl.y  or  despr,t>sm  mn 

1-,;,  f,om  believing  that  this  doctrine  is  the  sentiment  of  the 
Amer.eau  people;  and  during  the  short  period  v.lnch  rcma.ns 
i.  which  it  will  be  nry  duty  to  administ.T  the  ex.-cut.v  de- 
partment, it  will  be  mv  aim  to  maintain  its  independence,  and 
di.char..'e  its  duties,  without  infringing  upon  th.e  powers  or  du- 
ties of  either  of  the  other  departnumts  of  the  government. 

The  power  of  the  executive  veto  was  exercised  by  the  hrst 
and  most  illustrious  of  my  predecessors,  and  by  four  of    es 
successors  who  preceded  me  in  the  ad.nnustrauon  ot    the 
government,  and,  it  is  believed,  in  no  instance  prejudicmhy  to 
the  public  interests.     It  has  never  been  and  there  .s  but  h  - 
tie  danger  that  it  ever  can  be   abused.  •  .No  iWent  w .11 
ever  deVn-e,  unnecessarily,  to  place  his  opinion  fi  opposUion 
to  that  of  Congress.     He  n.ust  rdways  exercise  the  power 
reluctantly,  and  only  in  cases  where  his  convictions  make  ,t  a 
matter  of  stern  dutv,  which  he  cannot  escape.     Indeed,  the  e 
is   more  danger  that    the  I'resident,  from   the  repugnance  ho 
must  alwavs  feel   to  come  in  collision  with  Cong^'c^,  may 
fail  to  exercise  it  in  cases  where  the  preservation  o    the  con- 
stitution from  infraction,  or  the  public  good  may  demand  U, 
than  that  he  will  ever  exercise  k  unnecessarily  or  wantonly. 

Durino-  the  period  1  have  administered  the  executive  de- 
partmeiaof  the  government,  great  and  important  questions 
of  pubhc  policy,  foreign  and  domestic  have  arisen  upon 
which  it  was  my  duly  to  act.  It  may  mdeed  be  ruly  s.jd 
that  mv  administration  has  fallen  upon  eventful  times  1 
have  felt  most  sensiblv  the  wight  of  the  high  responsibilities 
devolved  upon  me.  XVith  no  other  object  than  the  pul^o 
o-ood,  the  enduring  fame,  and  v.rmnnent  prosperity  of  my 
counlry,  1  have  pursued  the  convictions   of  my  own  bcbt, 


■wsrr5]w*r#'«?*!S»ww»"^ 


'OLK. 


[1845-9. 


'  [Mwcv  of  tiie  government 
■tmcnt.     'vVhcneve'.-,  if  ever, 
cm  of  well-regulated  self- 
iiis  —  to  be  succeeded   first, 
reliy  ov  despotism.      1   i>ni 
iiie  is  the  sentiment  of  the 
short  period  v.Uich  reniains 
dminister  the  executive  de- 
iiituin  its  independence,  and 
•  ••ing  upon  the  powers  or  <lu- 
iienls  of  the  government. 
0  was  exercised  by  the  tir.'^t 
cessors,  and  by  four  of  h's 
the  administration  of    tlie 
no  instance  prejudicially  to 
r  been,  and  there  is  but  lit- 
abused.  ■  No  Presiden.t  will 
L'e  his  opinion  fi  opposition 
idways  exercise  the  power 
rre  his  convictions  make  it  a 
nmot  escape.     Indeed,  there 
■lit,  from   the  repugnance  he 
ollision  with  Congress,  ni;iy 
the  preservation  of  the  con- 
public  good  may  demand  it, 
unnecessarily  or  wantonly, 
minislered  the  executive  de- 
eat  and  impertant  questions 
domestic,  have   arisen,  upiMi 
It  may  indeed  be  tridy  s:ijd 
Ion  upon  e\entful  times.     1 
ht  of  the  high  responsibilities 
jthev  object^  than   the  public, 
iH'rmiinent  prosperity  of  my 
convictions   of  my  own  best 


1845-9.]      INAUGURATION    OP    Hia    SUCCESSOR. 


828 


^■j-j>i''Lr'.i,'ijmi~'.'^-' 


judgment.  'The  impartial  arbitrament  of  enlightened  public 
opinion,  present  and  future,  will  determine  how  far  the  pub- 
lic policy  I  have  maintained,  and  the  measures  I  have  from 
time  to  time  recommended,  may  have  intended  to  advance  or 
retard  the  public  prosperity  at  home,  and  to  elevate  or  de- 
press the  estimate  of  our  national  character  abroad. 

Invoking  the  blessings  of  the  Almighty  upon  your  deliber- 
ations at  your  present  important  session,  my  ardent  hope  is, 
that,  in  a  spirit  of  harmony  and  concord,  you  may  be  guided 
to  wise  results,  and  such  as  may  redound  to  the  happiness, 
the  honor,  and  the  glory  of  our  beloved  country." 

No  matters  of  legislation  of  general  and  permanent 
importance  were  definitely  acted  on  at  this  session.     The 
discussion  of  various  territorial  bills  for  New  Mexico  and 
California  occupied  nearly  the  whole  time,  but  in  conse- 
quence  of  the  continued  agitation  of  the  slavery  question, 
none  were  passed.     The  adjournment  took  place  on  the 
third  day  of  March,  1849,  and  on  the  5th  instant— the 
4th  happening  on  Sunday— General  Taylor  was  duly 
inaugurated  as  the  successor  of  Mr.  Polk.     The  latter 
took  part  in  the  ceremonies,  and  rode  beside  General 
Taylor  in  the  carriage  that  conveyed  them  to  the  capitol. 
He  was,  also,  one  of  the  first  to  congratulate  him  at  the 
close  of  his  inaugural  address,  rejoicing,  meanwhile,  that 
he  was  himself  relieved  from  the  cares  and  anxieties  of 
public  life.     In  the  afternoon  of  the  5th  inst,  Mr.  and 
Mrs.  Polk  took  leave  of  their  friends — many  words  of 
mingled  regret  and  endearment  being  uttered  on  both 
sides — and  in  the  evening  commenced  their  return  jour- 
ney to  their  home  in  Tennessee,  by  way  of  Richnwnd, 
Charleston,  and  New  Orleans. 


S^5! 


'■j.A,v;jt.:.;'-iVy"j^:^t'f" 


824 


JAME3   KNOX   POLK. 


[1845-9. 


Thus  ended  the  administration  of  Mr.  PolL     lo  say 
that  it  was  an  able  one,  would  be  but  feeble  pra.se     It 
tas  more  important  than  any  whieh  had  mtervened  bc- 
tZZ  and  the  adminisU-ation  of  Mr.  Madron.    It  wa, 
III  0    great  events.     The  settlement  of  the  Orego. 
Q  estU  the  war  with  Mexico,  and  the  -1-t.on 
Californil,  will  cause  it  to  be  long  remembered      Ago. 
hetce  if   he  God  of  nations  shall  continue  to  snnle  upon 
orfavored  land,  the  dweller  on  the  banks  of  the  M.s.- 
ippLas  he  gazes  on  the  mighty  current  that  laves  bs  feet 
a  Jbeholdf  it  reaching  forth,  like  a  giant,  its  hundrod 
"1,1  gathering  the  produce  of  that  noble  valley  n.tu 
Usb  som,will  bless  the  name  of  Thomas  Jkkkkrson. 
So  to,  the  citizen  of  California  or  Oregon,  when  he  sees 
the'ir  h  rbors  filled  with  stately  argosies,  nchly-fi-e.gu^ 
^Uh  golden  sands,  or  with  the  silks  and  f  P--  j    ^^^  ^ 
World,  will  offer  his  tribute,  dictated  by  a  grateful  hcait, 
to  the  memory  of  Jam^.s  K.  Polk.  ,„„.„cted 

At  home,  his   administration    was  well   conduc  ed 
Though  the  war  with  Mexico  was  actively  prosecuted  fo 
I  :Sl;lf  nearly  twoyears,thenatio..lebt  was ^^ 
largely  or  oppressively   increased,   and  the  pccunu    v 
rSt'of  theV--t  was  at  ^U  t.-s  -amtamo 
„.ore  than  double  the  premmms  realized  m  rt^^  wa^ 
1812,  being  procured  for  stock  and  treasury  notes.    Co    - 
mere  ,  agriculture,  and  every  art  and  occupation  of  u. 
LS,Turi8hed  during  this  period ;  happmess  and 
.^  Srity  dwelt  in  every  habitation.     In  the  manage- 
r^n?'urLignrelatiL,ability,skill  andpr^^^^^^^^ 

wercaisplayed.  Our  rights  were  -«P-^j'  .'^  ^^^^J^^^ 
defenJ;  and  our  national  character  elevated  at  11  higher 
ilT^Lnation  of  foreign  governments  and  th.r  people. 


.K. 


[1845-0. 


if  Mr.  Pol^.     To  sa.y 
but  feeble  praise.     It 
sh  had  intervened  Ijc- 
Mr.  Madison.    It  van 
emcnt  of  tlie  Oregon 
wid  the  acquisition  ol 
g  remembered.     Ages 
continue  to  smile  upon 
le  banks  of  the  Missis- 
rrent  that  laves  his  foot, 
ie  a  giant,  its  hundred 
[)f  that  noble  valley  into 
•  Thomas  Jeffkrson. 
)r  Oregon,  when  he  sees 
rgosies,  richly-frcigUtcd 
cs  and  spices  of  tho  Old 
ited  by  a  grateful  heart, 

I    was  well   conducted. 
,3  actively  prosecuted  for 
e  national  debt  was  not 
icd,   and  the  pecuniary 
it  all  times  maintained ; 
I  realized  in  the  war  of 
nd  treasury  notes.    (!oni- 
rt  and  occupation  of  in- 
period ;  happiness  and 
itation.     la  the  manage- 
aility,  skill,  and  prudence, 
ere  respected;  our  honor 
racter  elevated  still  higher 
ernments  and  their  people. 


CHAPTER  XL 

Return  to  Tennessee — Speooh  at  Kiobmond — Arrival  Homo — Prospects  for 
the  Future— Vanity  of  Human  Hopes  and  Expeotations— His  Death— 
Funeral  Honors— Personal  Appearance  and  Character— Conclusion. 

Ii'  Mr.  Polk  was  gratified  with  the  enthusiastic  demon- 
strations of  regard  that  attended  him  on  his  journey  to 
Washington  in  the  spring  of  1845,  to  enter  upon  the  du- 
ties of  his  administration, — he  was  far  more  sincerely 
pleased,  with  the  kindly  greetings  that  everywhere  wel- 
comed him  as  he  returned  to  his  home  in  Tennessee. 
The  one  might  have  been  selfish,  for  he  had  then  ofllice 
and  patronage  to  bestow  ;  but  the  other  was  the  genuine 
homage  of  the  heart ;  a  voluntary  offering  to  tho  man, 
and  not  to  the  President. 

At  Richmond,  he  was  complimented  with  a  public  re- 
ception by  tlie  citizens,  and  the  Legislature  of  Virginia, 
which  was  then  in  session.  In  reply  to  an  eloquent  ad- 
dress from  the  Speaker  of  the  House  of  Delegates,  tho 
cx-Presidciit  returned  his  hearty  thanks  for  the  high 
honor  accorded  to  liim  by  the  legislature  of  a  State  for 
which  he  cherished  tho  most  profound  veneration,  and 
from  whose  political  apostles  ho  had  imbibed  his  appre- 
ciation of  the  great  principles  of  constitutional  liberty. 
He  was,  he  said,  taken  by  surprise  at  the  manner  of  his 
reception  ;  and  to  be  thus  received,  when  he  had  just  laid 


'":ine'ja!^fe3asfessgag^K;^»iE<!t;?.Mia 


::r>!r" 


826 


JAMES  KNOX  POLK. 


[1849. 


down  power,  and  was  no  longer  clothed  wth  the  patr  n- 
tlof  1  governmerxt,  fiUed  him  with  gratUude.  lie 
m  proud,  to,  that  he  was  "no  more  a  servan  of  1  c 
til  bu  hai  become  a  sovereign."  He  spoke,  al.o, 
!Tl   'greatness  of  the  country,  and  of  the  value  and  un 

Itnce  of  the  Union.     "  Preserve  this  umon,"  he  de- 
ed   "and  the  march  of  our  country  in  prosper,  y  aud 

tatness  will  be  rapid  beyond  ^'omparjson    and  J^c. 

''.pened  glory  will  surpass  that  of  ancient  Rome,  the  m.s 


ri 


tiv^trte  camt  together  in  crowd,,  to  welcome  h.m.    Ex- 
tcnrive  preparation,  l»a  been  n,ade  for  l,i,  recop  -on, ».,,! 
rrrplJ^Tg  to  ti,o  orator  .1.0  .daressod   '"".  l'«. "»"' ; 
'^Y™   lark  truly,  sir,  that  I  still  cher.h  affeo  .    j^ 

„,  native  state.     !;-;;>'- ralVrst^r" 
t:=^re^ndr->tled.orank.^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ 

.hove,  »n,  *  -^s'e*— ^„rr, »:. 

f„':^:a«  oft  British  nronareh,  and  hero  .as  the  s,„n. 

"^r^:rt:n!l— t'l'^-Orleans-atev... 
,,,at  *     hepLasedaponhi,rout,>-.'lcomesan    CO,. 

Tulltions  .e^e  liberally  showered  „p,,h,sl,»   , 

"prayers  and  » Jl^ltl "«  te  had  go„e 
raimstcring  angels,  to  the  home  i  ^^ 

!::iittre:it:r;:ra:::«rfaiehehad 

gathered. 


!SM>!.!;  'o«« 


LK. 

)thc(l  wHh  the  patron- 
with  gratitude.  Ho 
more  a  servant  of  the 
rn."  He  spoke,  also, 
vd  of  the  value  and  im- 
ve  this  union,"  he  de- 
intry  in  prosperity  and 
comparison,  and  htr 
ancient  Rome,  the  mls- 


184/5-0. J  EMPLOYMENT   OP   HIS    TIME. 


827 


d 


1,  the  people  of  his  na- 
!,  to  welcome  him.    Ex 
Ic  for  his  reception,  and 
ddressed  him,  he  said: 
still  cherish  affection  for 
welcome  as  the  blessing 
irolina  can  boast  of  glo- 
tled  to  rank  with,  or  far 
jretensions.    It  was  from 
irg,  Ne\y  Hanover,   and 
I  in  the  colonies  first  went 
jh,  and  here  was  the  spi vie 

d^'cw  Orleans— at  every 
route— welcomes  and  con- 
vered  upon  his  head;  and 
rable  attended  hini,  like 
3  from  which  he  had  gone 
re  out  his  de?tiny,  and  to 
he  harvest  of  fame  he  had 


Previous  to  his  return  to  Tennessee,  Mr.  Polk  had 
purchased  the  mansion  and  grounds  formerly  belonging 
to  his  friend  and  preceptor,  Mr.  Grundy,  and  situat"  iu 
the  heart  of  the  city  of  Nashville.  Here,  surrounded  by 
the  comforts  and  conveniences  which  an  ample  fortune 
enabled  him  to  procure,— in  the  sweet  companionship  of 
his  wife,  of  books,  and  of  the  friends  whom  he  loved  and 
esteemed,— he  detertnincd  to  pass  the  remainder  of  his 
days  in  ease  and  retirement,  fulfilling  his  duty  to  himself 
and  to  the  world,  but  not  entering  again  into  public  life. 
He  had  discovered,  from  his  own  experience,  that  an 
"  aching  heurt  was  the  price  of  a  diadem,"  and  ho 
longed  to  enjoy  the  quiet  and  tranquillity  which  seemed 
to  woo  him  with  their  smiles.  Jlis  constitution  appeared 
to  be  unimpaired  ;  a  life  of  strict  temperance,  approach- 
ing to  abstemiousness,  seemed  to  promise  a  continuance 
of  liealth  for  many  years ;  and  nearly  one-third  of  man's 
allotted  pilgrimage  was  yet  before  him. 

But  the  hopes  and  expectations  of  man  are  like  the 
mists  of  the  morning,— as  empty  and  as  fleeting.  No 
rank  or  station— no  honor  or  reputation— no  talents  or 
advantages— can  protect  him  from  his  destiny. 

"  The  statesman's  fame 
Will  fade,  the  conqueror's  laurel  crown  grow  eear ; 
Fame's  loudest  trump,  upon  the  ear  of  Time 
Leaves  but  a  dying  echo." 

The  year  1849  will  not  be  soon  forgotten  in  the  valley 
of  the  Mississippi ;  but  the  fearful  ravages  of  the  Asiatic 
cliolera,  which  it  witnessed,  will  be  long  remembered  iu 
sorrow  and  pain.  On  his  way  up  the  Mississippi  from 
New  Orleans,  in  the  month  of  March,  Mr.  Polk  had  suf- 


■^tssm 


'4«K(--,rfr'>»:-,«S^53St3t,.. 


m!Sihm.t--:  ■ 


828 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1849. 


fcreJ  considerably  from  diarrha>a  ;  but  the  use  of  medi- 
cine, and  a  proper  attention  to  regimen,  checked  the 
attack,  and  it  seemed  entirely  to  pass  off,  leaving  him  in 
apparent  good  health.  He  was  somewhat  enervated, 
however,  by  the  fatigue  cunsciiuent  upon  his  journey,  and 
the  acknowledgment  of  the  kind  civilities  extended  to 
liim ;  and  when  he  arrived  at  Nashville,  his  whole  system 
was  enfeebled. 

"  Having  taken  up  his  abode  here,"  says  one  of  his 
friends  and  neighbors,  "  he  gave  himself  up  to  the  im- 
provement of  his  grounds,  aad  was  seen  every  day  about 
his  dwelling,  aiding  and  directing  the  workmen  he  had 
employed ;  now  overlooking  a  carpenter,  now  giving  ni- 
Ktructions  to  a  gardener,  often  atteruhHl  by  Mrs.  Polk, 
whoso  exquisite  taste  constituted  the  element  of  every  im- 
provement.    It  is  not  a  fortniglit  since  I  saw  him  on  his 
lawn,   directing  some   men  wlio  were  removing  decay- 
inw  cedars.     I  was  struck  with  liis  erect  and  health- 
ful bearing,  and  the  active  energy  of  his  manner,  which 
gave  promise  of  long  life.     His  iiowing  gray  locks  alone 
made  him  appear  beyond  the  middle-age  of  life.     Ho 
seemed  in  full  health.     The  next  day  being  rainy,  he  re- 
mained within,  and  began  to  arrange  his  large  library ; 
and  the  labor  of  reaching  books  from  the  floor  and  placing 
them  on  the  shelves,  brought  on  fatigue  and  slight  fever, 
which  the  next  day  nasumed  the  character  of  disease  in 
the  form  of  chronic  diarrhoea,  which  was  with  him  a  com- 
plaint of  many  years'  standing,  and  readily  induced  upon 
his  system  by  any  over-exertion. 

"  For  the  first  three  days,  his  friends  felt  no  alarm. 
But  the  disease  baffling  the  skill  of  his  physicians.  Dr. 


gt!(W''  - 


K. 


[1849. 


1849. J 


ILI.NKS.S    AND    DKA'J'II. 


329 


but  the  use  of  mcdi- 
■o^imen,  checked  tho 
iss  ofl",  leaving  him  in 
somewhat  enervated, 
upon  his  journey,  and 
civiUtica  extended  to 
villc,  his  whole  system 

ere,"  says  one  of  hia 
himself  up  to  the  im- 
;  seen  every  day  about 
the  workmen  he  had 
pouter,  now  giving  iu- 
oudvd  by  Mrs.  Polk, 
10  element  of  every  im- 
since  I  saw  him  on  hia 
were  removing  decay- 
liis  erect  and  health- 
T  of  his  manner,  which 
jwing  gray  locks  alone 
iddle-age  of  life.     He 
day  being  rainy,  he  re- 
mgo  his  large  library; 
om  the  floor  and  placing 
atigue  and  slight  fever, 
character  of  disease  in 
ch  was  Avith  him  a  com- 
nd  readily  induced  upon 

3  friends  felt  no  alarm. 
[  of  his  physicians,  Dr. 


lh\y^  his  brother-in-law,  and  family  physician  for  twenty 
years,  was  sent  for  from  Columbia.  JJut  the  skill  and 
I'xpuricnco  of  this  gentleman,  aided  by  tiio  iiigliost  mc<li- 
cal  talent,  proved  of  no  avail.  Air.  Polk  continued  gradu- 
ally to  sink  from  day  to  day.  The  disease  was  checked 
upon  him  four  days  before  his  death,  but  his  constitution 
was  so  weakened,  that  there  did  not  remain  recuperative 
energy  enough  in  the  system  for  healthy  reaction.  Ho 
sunk  away  so  slowly  and  insensibly,  that  the  heavy  death 
respirations  commenced  e.rht  hours  before  he  died.  Ho 
died  witliout  a  struggle,  siuii)ly  ceasing  to  breathe,  as 
when  deep  and  quiet  sleep  falls  upon  a  weary  man. 
About  half  an  hour  preceding  liis  death,  his  venerable 
mother  entered  the  room,  and  kneeling  by  his  bedside, 
ollered  up  a  beautiful  prayer  to  tho  '  king  of  kings  and 
lord  of  lords,'  committing  the  soul  of  her  son  to  his  holy 


iii. 


k 


eepnig 


■>■> 


Uthers  beside  that  pious  mother  watched  for  the  de- 
parting of  the  spirit.  The  wife  and  the  brother  were 
there  overcome  with  grief.  IJut  ho  had "  already  taken 
leave  of  tiioso  who  were  so  dear,  and,  like  Russell,  ho 
could  say,  "the  bitterness  of  death  was  passed." 

The  death  of  Air.  Polk  occurred  on  the  loth  day  of 
June,  1849,  and  in  the  54th  year  of  his  age.  The  fune- 
ral ceremonies  took  place  on  tho  following  day ;  all  busi- 
ness was  suspended  in  Nashville ;  and  the  cortege  that 
accompanied  his  remains  to  their  final  resting  place,  was 
composed  of  almost  the  entire  population  of  the  city  and 
the  adjacent  country.  He  was  dressed  in  a  plain  suit  of 
black,  and  a  copy  of  the  constitution  of  the  United  States, 
which  had  ever  been  the  guide  of  Lis  counsels,  was 


^?7r^?r:n^^ 


c-u-rrrr-T-— 


jSK'TaRSSTCriSE- 


830 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1849. 


p,acnlatl.i.feot.     Upon  the  plate  of  h^' ^f'"  7; 

Lple  inscription,  embracing  his  naine,  and  the  date  of 

his  birth  and  of  his  decease. 

When  the  death  of  Mr.  Polk  was  announced  at  Wash- 
ington, suitable  honors  were  directed  to  be  paul  to  h  s 
Jmory  by  all  the  departments  of  the  government,  and 
byVarmy  and  navy.  Similar  manifestations  of  sor- 
row and  respect  were  witnessed  in  every  quarter  of  tho 

""tr.'  Polk  had  no  children.  Ho  had  however,  adopted 
a  son  of  his  brother  Marshall,  to  whom  and  to  Mrs. 
Polk,  the  greater  part  of  his  property  was  bequeathed. 

In  stature  Mr.  Polk  was  but  little  above  the  averngo 
height,  and  his  form  was  spare.    His  forehead  was  h.gh 
broad,  and  full,  and  he  had  clear  expressive  eyes.     Hus 
look  was  ordinarily  calm  and  thoughtful,  but  the  senou 
cast  of  his  peculiar  countenance,  which  at  times  appeared 
almost  repulsive,  was  easily  lighted  up  by  the  pleasant 
smile  that  indicated  the  warmth  of  his  heart 

He  was  simple  and  plain  in  all  his  habits.     His  pri- 
vate life  was  upright  and  blameless.     Hones  y  and  in- 
legrity  characterized  his  intercourse  with  his  iellow-men 
fidelity  and  affection  his  relations  to  his  famdy.     In  h  s 
friendships  he  was  frank  and  sincere ;  and  cour  eous  and 
aifable  in  his  disposition.     He  was  generous  and  benevo- 
lent ;  but  his  charities,  like  his  character,  were  unosten- 
tatious.   He  was  pious,  too,  sincerely  and  truly;  his 
;vife  was  a  member  of  the  Presbyterian  church,  but  he 
never  united  with  any  denomination,  though  on  his  dying 
bed  he  received  the  rite  of  baptism  at  the  hands  of  a 
Methodist  clergymen,  in  old  neighbor  and  friend,     'i  et, 


,K. 


[1849. 


184S).J 


rr.RSONAI.    APPKARANri'., 


331 


;e  of  h'.9  coflSn  was  a 
name,  and  the  date  of 

3  announced  at  Wash- 
:ted  to  be  paid  to  liis 
'  the  government,  and 
manifestations  of  sor- 
n  every  quarter  of  tho 

had,  however,  adopted 
to  whom  and  to  Mrs. 
erty  was  bequeathed, 
ittle  above  the  aver  a  go 

His  forehead  was  high, 
r  expressive  eyes.  His 
mghtful,  but  the  serious 
which  at  times  appeared 
bted  up  by  the  pleasant 
of  his  heart. 

lU  his  habits.  His  pri- 
leless.  Honesty  and  in- 
cirse  with  his  fellow-men  ; 
ns  to  his  family.  In  his 
icere ;  and  courteous  and 
(vas  generous  and  benevo- 

character,  were  unosten- 
sincerely  and  truly;  his 
jsbyterian  church,  but  he 
ation,  though  on  his  dying 
,aptism  at  the  hands  of  a 
leighbor  and  friend.     Yet, 


ho  made  no  loud  professions  of  his  sentiments.  **  Reli<'- 
ion  is  tho  very  best  poHsession  in  the  world,  and  the  last 
to  bo  f-poken  of.  It  should  dwell  ([uietly  in  tho  Ik  art, 
and  rule  tlie  life  ;  not  he  liawk<Ml  aluiiit  as  a.  eoininodiiv ; 
nor  scoured  up  like  a  rusty  Inickler  lor  protortioii ;  iic" 
he  worn  over  tho  shoulders  like  a  blanket  for  drreiiei".''* 

As  a  statesman,  lie  was  ilnii  in  tlie  iiiaiuteinuiee  of  his 
opinions,  but  not-f-tulil)oni  or  .selt'-wilh.Ml.  |Io  possessed 
moral  courage  in  an  eminent  dejxrec,  ami  ])raetieal  good 
sense.  "•  He  Avas  the  master  'of  him-^rlf  and  of  iiis  emo- 
tions." He  was  cautious  and  eircumspect,  prudent  and 
fiagaeious.  Not  inclined  to  sudden  innovations,  he  nev- 
ertheless kept  pace  witli  the  progr.-ssive  tendency  of  tiio 
ago,  and  sought,  so  far  as  lay  in  his  power,  to  reguhito 
and  control  it  aright.  His  mind  was  clear  and  compre- 
hensive, and  well-  halaneed  and  well-diseiplineil ;  the  meas- 
ures which  he  recommended,  theri'rore,  were  practical, 
and  not  visionary.  He  was  a  .Telfersonian  democrat,  in 
practice  and  in  principle.  He  belonged  to  the  strict  con- 
struction school.  He  was  devotedly  attached  to  the  fed- 
eral constitution,  and  in  fevor  of  a  literal  adherence  to  it3 
provisions,  at  all  times  and  under  all  circumstances  ;  for, 
as  it  seemed  to  him,  tho  spirit  would  not  long  remain, 
when  the  plain  letter  was  disregardeil. 

His  style  as  a  writer  was  clear  and  correct,  possessing 
neither  redundancy  nor  ornament,  but  ho  was  sometimes 
inclined  to  become  difruse,on  account  of  the  copiousness 
of  his  ideas.  His  manner  as  a  speaker  accorded  with 
the  cliaracter  of  (lis  audieneo.  On  tlie  stump,  or  in  ml- 
dressing  a  popular  assembly,  lie  Avas  impassioned  and  eu- 

•  Bancroft. 


JAMES   KNOX   POLK. 


[1849. 


thusiastic,  ami  every  lineament  of  his  face  glowed  with 
animation.  But  in  adilreHsing  a  tleliberativo  body,  his 
earnestness  was  tempered  with  gravity  and  dignity,  and 
he  won  the  attention,  and  captivated  the  minds,  of  thoso 
who  listened  to  him, 

"  With  nil  eloquence,— ndt  lilio  tlmw  rills  from  a  boiglit, 
Which  opnrklo,  ami  I'liim,  nnd  in  viijidr  nro  o'er ; 
Hut  a  current  tliiil  wurks  mil  its  way  into  light, 
Through  the  lilleiing  rcceAioa  of  thought  and  of  lore." 

» 

In  a  word,  he  was  "  an  upright  and  virtuous  citizen, 
whose  life,  from  the  cnidle  to  the  days  of  opening  man- 
hood, from  iiiiiiilinod  to  the  close  of  his  earthly  career, 
had  been  constiintly  marlced  with  the  amiable  and  un- 
ostentatious display  of  all  those  moral  graces  which  se- 
cure repose  and  happiness  to  the  social  circle;"*  and  in 
his  public  capiicity,  he  illustrated  the  sentiment  of  the 
Roman  liistorian,  "  Par  negotiis,  neqiie  suyjra,"t— he 
was  equal  to  his  duty,  and  not  above  it ! 

There  is  a  moral  presented  in  the  life  and  character  of 
James  K.  Polk,  which  should  not  bo  passed  over.  Born 
of  humble  but  respectable  parents,  and  favored  by  no 
adventitious  circumstances,  he  raised  himself  by  the  force 
of  his  own  merit,  by  his  talents,  his  industry,  energy, 
and  perseverance,  to  the  highest  station  in  the  land. 
And  this  was  no  idle  achievement.  It  was  something  of 
which  he  might  justly  have  been  proud ;  and  others  might 
take  pride  in  imitating  his  example. 

Hope  and  Ambition— the  Castor  and  Pollux,  twin- 
eharers  of  immortality— these  are  the  household  gods 


•  Eulogy  of  Hoi.-.  H.  S.  Foote. 


t  Tacitus,  Annal.  vi.  39. 


^PWU."!"!!!*'" 


^igjiit'  f^^.j»A.^  .>j^.^ji!-l4UJJ-^^''X^IWV.<£l^^'  f- 


[1849. 


t849.J 


CONCLUSION. 


333 


Ilis  faco  glowed  with 
k'liberativo  body,  liirf 
,ity  and  dignity,  and 
id  tho  minda,  of  thoso 


ll.H  fidin  a  boight, 
ijicir  nro  o'er; 
into  liglit, 
uugUt  and  of  !oro." 

,  and  virtuous  citizen, 

days  of  opening  nian- 

of  his  earthly  career, 

tlic  amiable  and  un- 

Horal  graces  which  se- 

iocial  circle;"*  and  in 

the  sentiment  of  the 

,  neque  su/>ra,"t — ho 

)vc  it ! 

he  life  and  character  of 
;  bo  passed  over.  Born 
its,  and  favored  by  no 
3ed  himself  by  the  force 
,  his  industry,  energy, 
t  station  in  the  land. 
;.  It  was  something  of 
roud ;  and  others  might 
le. 

istor  and  Pollux,  twin- 
ire  the  household  gods 

t  Tacitus,  Annal.  vi.  39. 


which  the  young  man  should  cherish  on  his  hearth- 
stone. 

As  in  tho  beautiful  Scandinavian  myth,  three  weird 
sisters  preserve  the  Ash  tree  from  perishing,  so  tliey 
nmst  sustain  and  support  him.  Tiio  Past  is  his  for 
example — tho  Prksknt  is  his  for  profit — and  the  Futuhl 
may  bo  his  for  reward  ! 


i,i.m>mMmm>tmJ-,iti%mf-&t3Ma$vi^^'^''-'' 


\'iK.m-3&-Mx^^i^,iiMdms«f'^"MmSxi:,<^mmm^i''-ii-m,vi   . '''&-^■n^■m'..l^,'^■,.^■.lli.la■.^w*■J8!■u^--■ 


TiiJW.'iU.        .1    l.'l"» 


spi.»4iB..i,i-;.-a>il.4-''-'*-  »J'".'^!" '' 


SPECIAL    MESSAGE 


OH 


INTERNAL  IMPROVEMENTS, 


DECEMBER  15th,  1847. 


To  the  House  (if  Representatives : 

On  the  last  day  of  the  last  aesBion  of  Con!trp<<g,  a  bill,  entitled  "  An 
act  to  provide  for  continuing  certain  works  in  the  Territory  of  Wis- 
consin, and  for  other  purposes,''  which  had  passed  both  Houses,  was 
presented  to  me  for  my  approval  1  entertained  insuperable  objections 
to  its  becoming  a  law ;  but  the  short  period  of  the  session  which  re- 
mained affiirilcd  me  no  outKcient  opportunity  to  prepare  my  objections, 
and  comiiianicnti.  laem,  with  the  bill,  to  the  House  of  Representatives, 
in  which  it  originated.  For  this  reason  the  bill  was  retained,  and  I 
deem  it  proper  now  to  state  my  objections  to  it. 

Although,  from  the  title  of  the  bill,  it  would  seem  that  its  main  object 
was  to  make  provision  for  continuing  certain  works  already  commenced 
in  the  Territory  of  Wisconsin,  it  appears,  on  examination  of  its  pro- 
visions, that  it  contains  only  a  single  appropriation  of  six  thousand 
dollars  to  be  applied  within  that  Territory,  while  it  appropriates  more 
thnn  half  a  million  of  dollars  for  the  improvement  of  numerous  harbors 
and  rivers  lying  within  the  limita  and  jurisdiction  of  several  of  the 
States  of  the  Union. 

At  the  precedi-.ig  session  of  Congress  it  became  my  duty  to  return, 
with  my  objections,  ir  the  House  in  which  it  originated,  a  bill  makin<r 
similar  appropriations,  and  involving  like  principles,  and  the  views  then 
expressed  remain  unchanged. 

The  circumstances  under  which  this  heavy  expenditure  of  public 
money  was  proposed  were  of  imposing  weight  in  determining  upon  its 
expediency.  Congress  had  recognized  the  existence  of  war  with 
Mexico,  and  to  prosecute  it  to  "  a  speedy  and  successful  termination" 
had  made  appropriations  exceeding  our  ordinary  revenues     To  meet 

15 


.r■=.4V8ed^^Jfc3aaa',i,Vi^..jj^j.g.,',l^U^^l!^fc'iJJ-,^^u.alJ^^l.^^',^^'- 


338 


SPECIAL    MESSAGE 


the  cmorgenoy,  nn.l  pr.-vi.lo   for  tl>e  ^^I,.  n.cs  of  the  (..vcrnmcnt,  a 
loan  of  lvv,.nt"v-tl>r..o  u.illions  of  dollar,  was  autl:  ,riz<H    nt  the  Bamo 
p,.ssion,  which  has  Hi.uH.  h.-n  n.^otiatcl.     The  pra.-l.cal  .(Tc.-t  of  ih, 
,„ll   ha.l  it  hrrome  a  law,  woul.l  have  hern  to  tt.i.l  the  whole  amount 
no,,r,M,riate,l  hv  it  to  the  ri.tional   .1,  ht.     It  wouM,  in  fact,  have  made 
n'e'-e.sarv  an   a.hiilional   lo;.n  to  that  a.nount,  as  .-(Tectuaiy  ns  .1  i.i 
„  ra,s   it'ha,!    r,-,a>r<Hl   the   Secretary   of  the   Treasury  to  borrow  the 
money   therein   appropriated.      The   main  question   .n  that  aspect  H 
whel'L  it  is  wise,  while  all  the  means  and  credit  of  the  Government 
arenceded'tobrinL'thecxistin.:  war  to  an  honorable  close,  to  .mpair 
the  one  and  . Kdan^rer  the  other  by  b,.rrowiu^'  n.oney  to  he  expended  m 
a  sy.tea.  of  internal  i.uprovements  capable  of  on  cxpanMon  sufficient 
to  swallow  up  the  revenues  not  only  of  our  own  country,  but  ot    he 
civili^e.l  world.     It  is  to  be  apprehended  that,  by  entering  upon  such  a 
career  at  this  mo.nont,  confidence,  at  home  and  abroad,  in  the  wisdom 
an.l  prudence  of  the  (iovernment  would  be  so  far  impaired  as  to  make 
it  diliieult,  without  an  immediate  resort  to  heavy  taxation,  to   main  ain 
the  public  credit  and  to  preserve  the  honor  of  the  nation  and  the  .lory 
of  our  arms  in  proseculinj;  the  existing  war  to  a  succcsstu   conclusion 
Had  this  bill  become  a  law,  it  is  easy  to  foresee  that  largely  increased 
demands  upon  the  Treasury  would  have  been  made  at  each  succeed- 
in.  session  of  Congress,  for  the  i.nprovemcnl  of  numerous  other  harbors, 
b.rys,  inlets,  and  rivers  of  equal  mq.ortance  with  those  embraced  by 
i.s'provisioas.     Many  nuUions  would  probably  have  been  added  to  the 
necessary  amount  of  the  war  d,  bt,  the  annual  interest  on  which  must 
also  have  been  borrowed,  and  llnally  a  per.nanent  national  debt  been 
fastened  on  the  country  and  entailed  on  posterity. 

The  policy  of  embarking,  the  Federal  Government  in  n  general  sys- 
tem of  internal  improvements  had  its  origin  but  little  more  than  twenty 
vears  ago.  In  a  verview  year,  the  applications  to  Congress  for  ap- 
propriat'ons  in  furtherance  of  su.h  objects  exceeded  twro  hundred  mil- 
i„ns  of  dollars.  In  tins  alarming  cns,s  President  Jackson  refused  to 
approve  and  sign  the  JIaysville  iio,,Abill,  the  Wabash  River  bill,  and 
other  bills  of  similar  character.  Mis  interposition  put  a  check  upon 
th,.  new  policy  of  tltfowing  the  cost  of  local  improvements  upon  thr; 
National  Treasury,  pre.s.r.ed  the  revenues  of  the  nation  for  their  legiti 
inate  obi,  cts  by  which  he  was  enabled  to  extinguish  the  toen  e.usling 
nul.lic  debt,  and  to  present  to  an  admiring  world  the  unprecedented 
Spectacle  in  modern  limes  of  a  nation  free  from  debt,  and  advancn^r 
t'i  greatness  with  unequalled  strides,  under  a  Government  which  wa 
content  to  act  within  its  appropriate  sphere  in  protecting  the  Stave 
and  individuals  in  their  own  chosen  career  of  improvement  and  of  en 
tcrptiae.     AUhough  the  bill  under  consideration  proposes  no  appropna- 


n?cs  of  the  Osvcrnment,  a 
fits  (lutl:  irizi'il  nt  tlie  samo 
The  prai-liciil  tlTcct  of  lliii 
1  to  mill  tlic  whole  nmount 
I  would,  in  fact,  have  madi! 
miU,  n3  cITectually  na  if  in 
he  Treasury  to  borrow  the 
qu''»lion  in  that  aspect  is, 
1  oreilit  of  the  Govctument 

honorable  close,  to  impair 
u;.'  inonty  to  be  expended  in 

of  an  expansion  suflicient 
ir  own  country,  but  of  the 
lat,  by  entering  upon  such  a 
;  and  abroad,  in  the  wisdom 
c  so  far  impaired  as  to  ruake 
heavy  taxation,  to  maintain 
:  of  the  nation  and  the  jjlory 
iir  to  tt  successful  conclusion, 
iresee  that  largely  increased 

been  made  at  each  suceecd- 
:iit  o\'  numerous  other  harborH, 
lice  with  those  embraced  by 
lably  have  been  added  to  the 
inua!  interest  on  which  must 
:riiianent  national  debt  been 
)0^^lcrily. 

iovernment  in  n  general  sys- 
iii  but  little  more  than  twenty 
ications  to  Congress  for  ap- 
^  t  xcceded  two  hundred  mil- 
l'rt»ident  Jackson  refused  to 
1,  the  Wabasli  River  bill,  and 
erposilion  put  a  check  upon 
local  improvements  upon  the 
:sof  the  nation  for  their  legiti 
0  extinguish  the  then  existing 
iring  world  the  unprecedented 
ce  from  debt,  and  advancing 
ler  u  Government  which  wa 
iicre  in  protecting  the  Staie 
^er  of  improvement  and  of  en 
leration  proposes  no  appropria- 


ON    INTERNAL    IMPROVEMENTS. 


339 


(ion  for  a  road  or  canal,  it  is  not  easy  to  perceive  the  difference  in  prin- 
ciple or  mischievous  tendency  between  appropriations  fur  making  roads 
and  digging  canals,  and  appropriations  to  deepen  rivers  and  improve 
harbors.  All  are  alike  within  the  limits  and  jurisdiction  of  the  States, 
.'uiil  rivers  and  harbors  Blon^open  an  abyss  of  expenditure  sufRcient 
to  swallow  up  the  wealth  of  the  nation,  and  load  it  with  a  debt  which 
may  fetter  its  energies  and  tax  its  industry  for  ages  to  come. 

The  experience  of  several  of  the  States,  as  well  as  that  of  the 
United  States,  during  the  period  that  Congress  exercised  the  power  of 
appropriating  the  public  money  for  internal  improvements,  is  full  of 
«loi]uenl  warnings.  It  seems  impossible,  in  the  nature  of  the  subject, 
as  connected  with  local  representation,  that  the  several  objects  pre- 
sented fur  improvement  shall  be  weighed  according  to  their  respective 
merits,  and  appropriations  confined  to  those  whose  importance  would 
justify  a  tax  on  the  whole  community  to  effect  their  accomplishment. 

In  some  of  the  States  systems  of  internal  improvements  have  been 
projected,  consisting  of  roads  and  cannls,  many  of  which,  taken  sep- 
arately, were  not  of  sufficient  public  importance  to  justify  a  tax  on  the 
entire  population  of  the  State  to  effect  their  construction  ;  and  yet,  by 
a  combination  of  local  interests,  operating  on  a  majority  of  the  Leg- 
islature, the  whole  has  been  outhoriaed,  and  the  States  plung.'d  into 
heavy  debts.  To  an  extent  so  ruinous  has  this  system  of  legislation 
been  carried  in  some  portions  of  the  Union,  that  the  people  have  found 
it  necessary  to  their  own  safety  and  prosperity  to  forbid  their  Legisla- 
tures, by  constitutional  restrictions,  to  contract  public  debts  for  such 
purposes  without  their  immediate  consent. 

If  the  abuse  of  power  has  been  so  fatal  in  the  States,  where  the 
systems  of  taxation  are  direct,  and  representatives  responsible  at  short 
periods  to  small  masses  of  constituents,  how  much  greater  danger  of 
ttbuse  is  to  be  apprehended  in  the  General  Government,  whose  revenues 
are  raised  by  i.idirect  taxation,  and  who.se  functionaries  are  re-sponsi- 
ble  to  the  people  in  larger  masses  and  for  longer  terms  1 

Regarding  only  objects  of  improvement  of  the  nature  of  those  em- 
braced in  this  bill,  how  inexhaustible  we  shall  find  them.  Let  the 
imagination  run  along  our  coast,  from  the  river  St.  Croix  to  the  Rio 
Grande,  and  trace  every  river  emptying  into  the  Atlantic  and  Gulf  of 
iMexico  to  its  source  ;  let  it  coast  along  our  lakes  and  ascend  all  their 
tributaries;  let  it  pass  to  Oregon,  and  explore  all  its  bays,  inlets,  and 
streams;  and  then  let  it  raise  the  curtain  of  the  future,  and  contemplate 
the  extent  of  this  Republic,  and  the  objects  of  improvement  it  will  em- 
brace, as  it  advances  to  its  high  destiny,  and  the  mind  will  be  startled 
at  the  immensity  and  danger  of  the  power  which  the  principle  of  this 
bill  involve*. 


SHX-iX-'.     ■..'^..i'iSi?:-VW*'' 


■"u, .1.  •'ii'ft,.-j.^.i.m.',.u_ 


340 


SPECIAT.    MESSAGE 


Alren.lv  our  ConfeJcnu-y  conBisl*  of  tvvent.y-n.ne  States  Olho 
St.les  >n»v  nt  no  .listnnt  p.rio.l  l.e  cpc.lcl  to  Iv  M.rnuHl  on  the  ^vc..t 
..rour  ,,reHe,.l  se,tl..n..n.s.  We  own  un  cxt.n«.ve  country  n  O  «on, 
Ltc\Lr  ,nanv  lunulrols  of  u,ilc«  from  eu-t  lowest,  urn  B.ven  .1  - 
.r  olL..i.u,r.  fro..  ^K,uth  to  north.  By  the  a.l.nis^.on  o.  Tex«.  uUo 
11  rnion  we  have  recently  mldeJ  u>any  hundred,  of  nuleB  to  our  Kea- 
roast,  in  all  th.  v..t  country,  borderin.  on  the  Atlant.c  and  Pae  ..e 
here  are  n.any  thousand,  of  bay«,  inlet«,  and  r.ver.  cuually  ent.t led  t. 
I'ppropriation/for  their  in.prove.nent  with  the  objects  e.ubruced  u.  th.. 

'""  Ve  have  s.>en  in  our  States  that  the  interests  of  individuals  or  nei,U- 
horboods.  co,nbinin,  against  the  gen  ral  interest,  ^^^^^  ^^^^^^^^ 
Gov,.rn,neni.  in  d,d„.s  and  bankruptcy  ;  and  -  >-   '-.7;    '?     '  ;, '' 
i„  t,.,,  Ge,.eral  (^ovcrna.ent.  a..d  was  checked  by  l''--'"" \;^'". ;  ^  ^.^J 
,,.,,1  ,,,.„„.  to  be  considered  the  highest  n.er.t  in  a  ...emlwr  ot  Guns.-* 
:i  .Mr  to  procure  appropr.ations  of  public  money  to  ^«  -l^^  ^J 
w,tl,in  his  .iLstrict  or  .State,  whatever  ....s-bt  be   he  objects      \U    houU 

I  bl,nd  to  the  experie,.ee  of  the  past  if  we  .l.d  not  see  "  -"  - 

.l,.ne,s  that  if  this  svstea.  of  expc.ditur.  is  to  be  .nduli-cd  .n,  eoa.b  na 
.sfi   dividual  and  local  int,.rests  wdl  be  i-ou..d  stron,  enough    o 
co..trol  legislation,  absorb  the  revenues  of  the  country,  and  plun.-e  the 
r.overninent  into  a  hopeless  indebtedness.  „,.„  <..,,,•,!,. 

What  is  .lenoadnated  a  harbor  by  thm  systcu  does  not  neces.ardj 
mean  a  bay,  ...Ut,  or  ara.  of  the  sea  .m  the  ocean  or  on  our  lake  sho.es 
"„  the  ...arnn  of  wb.cl.  a.ay  exist  a  coa.u.ercial  eUy  or  town  en.a,.. 
Z  Lrei,n  or  do,..es,.c  trade,  but  is  -nude  to  e.nbrace  -terswhere    u.n^ 
;,  not  only  no  such  city  or  town,  but  no  coa.>..erec  of  any  kind,      iv  .1 
^bav  or  sheet  of  shoal  water  is  called  a  lu.rUor,  and   appropriation., 
dema-^led  from  <>..«ress  to  dee,K.n  it,  with  a  view  to  draw  coma.eree 
J:r  or  to  ;..able  i..Jividuals  to  build  up  a  town  or  c.ty  on  .ts  margm, 
upo..  speculation,  and  for  their  own  p.'ivate  advantage. 
\vl..  t  is  .lenotuinated  a  river,  which  ...ay  be  improved  .n  the  sy=t. ..  . 

isenuallv  undef.ned  in  its  ...ea,un,r.     It  may  be  the  M.ss.ss.pp.,  or  . 
ly  be  L  s,..all..st  and  ,„ost  obscure  and  ..nia.porlant  str...,u  bear.,., 
Z  ,.ame  of  river  which  is  to  be  found  in  any  State  in  the  Ln.o... 

sue    a  systcn  is  subject,  ...oreover,  to  be  perverted  to  the  accoa.phsl.- 
,„en"  of  the  worst  of  i..litical  pur,K,scs.     During  the  lew  years  .t  w  ^ 
TfuU  operation,  and  which  i......ediately  preceded  the  veto  ot  Pres.^ 

Jackson  of  the  Maysvillc  lload  bill.  insta..ces  were  nu.T.erous  o  pubhc 
men  seekin.  to  gain  popular  favor  by  holding  out  to  the  people  ...ter- 
TteVin  particular  localities  the  pro.nise  of  large  disbursements  «1 
publl  money.  Nu...erous  reconnoissances  "-1  -"eys  were  ...a  c 
Surin.  that  period  for  roads  and  canals  through  many  part,  of  tho 


■..jytHL'    ,  t.u.AAtf.'Wtfe-'-a'.WI'^--  -■■''Sil-.tifM^S^S^'^'-''''''' 


IGE 


OX  i\Ti-n\.\i.  imphovements. 


311 


twenty-nine  States.  Ollief 
,1  to  Iv  lonmnl  on  the  Vvc^l 
xtcnaivc  country  i"  Ortfion, 
euat  lo  west,  iinil  Buven  ilc- 
the  admission  of  Texns  into 
lundreils  of  niili'S  to  our  scn- 
on  the  Atlantic  and  I'aciru-, 
and  livtrs  cijuully  entitled  ti> 
tlie  objects  einbruced  in  thirf 

crests  of  individuals  or  nciijli- 
intertst,  have  involved  thtir 
nd  when  tlie  system  iinvail.d 
eked  by  I'rosidcnt  Jaelison.  it 
erit  in  a  aiemlwr  of  Con<;r(;ss 
ublic  money  to  be  exp  MuUd 
lit  be  the  objects.  We  should 
ve  did  not  see  abundant  evi- 
ls to  be  induljjed  in,  coaibina- 
\  be  Ibund  stronir  inoufrh  to 
f  the  country,  and  plunije  the 

s  system  does  not  necessarily 
le  ocean  or  on  our  lake  shores, 
mcrcial  city  or  town  en;,'a};ed 

to  embrace  waters  where  there 
commerce  of  any  kind.     Hy  it 

a  luirbor,  and  appropriation.-* 
.vith  a  view  to  draw  commerce 
)  a  town  or  city  on  its  margin, 
rate  advantage. 

nay  be  improved,  in  the  systeni, 
I  may  be  the  Mississippi,  or  it 
nd  unimportant  stream  bearing 
in  any  State  in  the  Union, 
ibe  perverted  to  the  accomplish- 
During  the  few  years  it  wa.-* 
ly  preceded  the  veto  of  Prosidenl, 
stances  were  numerous  of  public 
loldinjr  out  to  the  people  inter- 
nise  of  large   disbursements  of 
sancts  and  surveys  were  mado. 
nals  through  many  pads  of  tho 


t'nion,  and  the  penplo  in  the  vicinity  of  each  were  led  to  believe  that 
lii'  ir  |)ropcrly  wnuKl  be  cnhaiiced  in  value  and  they  themselves  be 
cniii'hed  by  the  large  i  xptnditurcs  whicli  they  were  prniuised  by  the 
nihncates  of  the  system  should  he  made  I'roui  the  Federal  Treasury  in 
their  :)cighborhood.  Wliole  sections  of  the  country  were  tlius  soughlt'' 
be  iniiiiinced,  and  the  system  was  fast  becoming  one  not  only  of  prol'usu 
and  \vil^tl■ful  expenditure,  but  a  potent  pulitical  engine. 

If  til'  power  to  improve  a  harbor  he  admitted,  it  is  not  easy  to  per- 
ci  ive  ho\s  the  power  to  deepen  every  inlet  on  the  ocean  or  the  laki  s, 
Jiiiil  make  harbors  where  tliere  are  none,  can  be  denied.  If  the  power 
lo  clear  out  or  deepen  the  channel  of  rivers  near  their  tnuutlis  be  ail- 
iiiilled,  It  Is  not  easy  to  ]>erceive  how  the  power  to  improve  them  to 
Ihi  ir  fountain  head  and  jiiake  theui  iiavig.ihl.;  to  their  sources  can  be 
denied.  Where  shall  thi;  exercise  of  the  power,  if  it  be  assumeil,  stop  1 
Has  Ciiiigress  the  power,  when  an  inlet  is  il.'.^p  enough  to  admit  a 
.schooner,  to  deepen  it  still  more  so  that  it  will  admit  ships  of  heavy 
burden;  un.l  has  it  not  the  jiower,  when  an  inlet  will  adaiit  a  boat,  to 
make  it  deep  enough  to  admit  a  schooner  !  lAIay  it  improve  rivers 
deep  enough  already  Jo  iloat  sliips  aiul  steainboat.s,  and  has  if  no 
power  to  improve  those  which  are  navigable  only  tor  flat-boats  and 
barges!  May  tlie  G/jneral  Governiiient  exercise  prtwer  and  jurisdic- 
tion over  tile  soil  of  a  Stale  consisting  of  rocks  and  sand-bars  in  the 
bi.dsof  jLs  rivers,  ;inil  may  it  not  ('Xcavate  a  canal  round  its  water- talk 
or  across  its  lan<ls  lor  [neeisrly  tlie  same  object'! 

(Jiving  to  the  subject  tho  aiost  serious  and  candid  consideration  of 
which  my  mind  is  capable.  I  cannot  perceive  any  intermediate  grounds. 
The  power  to  improve  luirhors  and  rivers  lor  purpoies  of  navigation, 
by  deepening  or  clearing  out,  by  dams  and  sluices,  by  locking  or 
canalling,  must  be  adiuilled  without  any  other  limitation  than  the  dis- 
cretion of  Congress  or  it  must  hi;  denied  altogether.  If  it  he  admitted, 
how  broad  and  how  susc.ptiWe  of  enormous  abuses  is  the  power  thu.s 
vested  in  the  General  Guvernmenll  There  is  not  an  inlet  of  the 
ocean  or  the  lakes,  not  a  river,  creek,  or  streamlet  within  the  States, 
which  is  not  brought  lor  this  purpose  within  the  power  and  jurisdiction 
of  the  General  Government. 

.  Speculation,  disguised  under  the  cloak  of  public  good,  will  call  on 
Congress  to  deepen  shallow  inlets,  that  it  may  build  up  new  cities  on 
their  shores,  or  to  make  streams  navigable  which  Nature  has  closed 
by  bars  and  rapids,  that  it  may  sell  at  a  profit  its  lands  upon  their 
banks.  'To  enrich  neighborhoods  by  spending  within  it  the  moneys 
of  the  nation,  will  be  the  aim  and  boast  of  those  who  prize  their 
local  interests  above  the  good  of  the  nation,  and  millions  upon  mil- 
Mons  will  be  abstracted  by  tariffs  and  taxes  tVom  the  earnings  of 


»3g=r' 


342 


SPECIAL    MESaAGE 


,l,c  whole  people  to  foster  speculation  and  subserve  ti.e  objects  of 

''Z:T^>«  couia  not  ..e  .Inunist...,  with   any  appro,...  ^, 
.■auahtyamon.  the  several  .States  and  sections  of  the  I  ...on       l.rr,, 
fn      q«      V  a.nong  them  in  the  ohjeots  of  expenditure   ....    .1  .ho 
,1  were  Lributed  according  to  the  n.erits  of  those  o^.;'-;; 

would  lK=  enriched  at  the  expense  "t" '''-[  "^'l^'' "".  ,    '^    '    ,' 

,,ru-li.-al  evil  would  l>e  found  in  the  art  and  industry  by  wh.  1.  »l  l-m 
;,•;„;  would  be  sought  and  obtained      The  n.ost  ar„u    an     .,.• 
lustrious  would  be  the  n.ost  successful ;  the  true  .ntercsls  o    t ..     ;. 
,rv  would  1«  lost  sight  of  in  an  annual  sera.uble  tor  the  co.,l  nts  ol  lb, 
T«ruy     nnd  the  .nember  of  Congress  whocould  procure    he  lar,- st 
.  pr  Jiaionstobeexpe  "'-"'  ^'^  '•"y '  ^^ 

'v dory  fro,n  his  enriched  constituents.  The  necessary  --.■■.-« 
would  be,  sectional  discontents  and  heartburnn.gs,  .ncroase.l  taxal.on, 
nnd  a  national  debt,  never  to  be  extinguished 

„.  view  of  these  portcnf.us  consequences,  I  cannot  but     h„  k  ,   a 

this  course  of  legislation  should  be  arrested,  even  were  there   ,.,..aun, 

or  ,     it  in  tl^,  funda,ncntal  laws  of  our  Union.     Th,s  con.lus,,,,.  . 

r   m.d  by  the   fact  that  the  co,>stitution  itsell  ind.cat.s  a  process  y 

I      h  harLs  and  rivers  wthin  the  States  ,nay  be  .,nproved-a  pro- 

:'    no   susceptible  of  the  abuses  necessarily  to  flow  fro.n  the  «ssu:„p^ 

ionofthcpolertoi,.M.rovethe,n  by  the  General    Governa.e,  t ,  .  .  t 

„  its  operation,  and  aclually  practised  upon,  w.thout  co,npta.n    o        - 

t'rruptfon,  during  .nore  than  thirty  years  from  the  organization  oi  the 

^'Cr:i="rovides  that  ..no  State  shall  without  the  consent 
of  Congress,  lay  any  duty  of  tonnage."  With  the  '■  -";-""';"; 
.ress  such  duties  may  be  levied,  collected,  and  exp..>ded  by  t  le  S  U. .  . 
\Ve  are  not  left  in  the  dark  as  to  the  objects  ot  this  rescrv  .t.on  o. 
power  to  the  States.  The  subject  was  fully  considered  by  the  con- 
vention that  framed  the  constitution,  ft  apin-ar..  in  Mr.  Mudison  s  re- 
;  .  of  the  proceedings  of  that  body,  that  one  object  o,  the  res.rv.  ion 
lv«s  that  the  States  should  not  be  restricted  from  laying  .luties  ot  ton- 
nage for  the  purpose  of  clearing  harbors.  Other  objects  were  nam,.! 
,a  U.e  debates,  and  among  them  the  support  ot  sea.nen,  Mr.  Madison, 
treating  on  this  subject  in  the  Federalist,  declares  that- 

-rlie  restraint  on  the  power  of  the  States  over  imports  and  exports 
is  enforced  by  all  the  argu.nents  which  prove  the  necessity  o  submimMg 
the  regulation  of  trade  to  the  Federal  Councils,  It  is  needU-ss  tl.  r,  - 
Core  to  remark  further  on  this  head  than  that  the  manner  in  .vhu  1. 
,be  restraint  is  qualified  seems  well  calcuated  at  once  to  secure  to  Lo 
State,  a  reasonable  d«cretion  xa  providing  for  the  convemenpy  ol  then 


r;?w,'tP^y<y=?"^^*' ' 


r^^ES^^:^v?*^5C*'it^ 


lge 


ON    I\TF,R\AL    IMPROVEMENTS. 


313 


id   gubscrve  the  ol>jccts  of 

irci!  Willi   nny  npiirom-li   lo 
lions  of  llie  I'liion.     TIk n; 
1  of  cxiicniiiturc,  iiml   if  >li'' 
UPriH  of  those  objects  souk^ 
;ir  neighbors.     Hiit  a  grcati  r 
111  industry  by  wliieli  nmn'"- 
The  most  urtful  nnd  iii- 
lie  true  interests  of  the  eoiin- 
riiiiibb!  forthe  contents  of  Ihc 
r\M  conld  procure  the  lnri;e»t 
Id  woul.l  I'liiiin  the  rewnnls 
The  neceasiiry  consequence 
burnings,  increased  taxalion, 
shed. 

ces,  I  cannot  but  think  that 
led,  even  were  there  i..,uiing 
jr  Union.  This  conclusi'in  is 
n  itsell  indicates  a  process  by 
les  may  Ix;  iaiproved— a  pro- 
i\rily  to  flow  from  llie  aasuaip- 
e  General  Governaient;  just 
pon.  without  complaint  or  in- 
1  troai  the  organization  of  the 

ate  shall,  without  the  consent 
With  the,  '■  consent '  of  Con- 
d,  and  exptinded  by  the  Slat.s. 
e  objects  of  this  reservation  of 
3  tully  considered,  by  tlie  con- 
t  npix-ars  in  Mr.  Madison's  re- 
al one  object  of  the  reservation 
ictcd  froai  laying  duties  of  tou- 
rs.    Other  objects  were   named 
ppOTt  of  seamen.     Mr.  Madison, 
It,  declares  that— 
States  over  impirts  and  exports 
prove  the  necessity  of  subaiilliiig 
::;ouncil3,     it  is  ncedU-ss  lb.  re- 
lan  lliat  tlie   manner  in  which 
cuated  at  once  to  secure  to  tho 
ling  for  the  convenienpy  of  theix 


imports  and  exports,  and  to  the  United   States  a   reasonable   check 
ag  linst  the  abuse  of  this  discretion." 

The  States  may  lay  tonnage  duties  for  clearing  harbors,  improving 
nvi  rs,  or  for  ollur  purposes,  but  are  restrained  from  abusing  the  power, 
b  (Muse,  before  such  duties  can  take  eflTect,  the  "consent"  of  Congress 
iiuMt  he  (d)tained.  Here  is  a  safe  provision  for  the  improvement  of 
li  irbors  and  rivers  in  the  reserved  powers  of  the  .States  and  in  the  aid 
I  hey  may  derive  from  duties  of  tonnage  levied  with  the  consent  of 
Congress.  Its  safeguards  are,  that  both  the  State  Legislatures  and 
Congress  have  to  concur  in  the  act  of  raising  the  Ainds;  that  thev 
are  in  every  instance  to  be  levied  upon  the  commerce  of  those  porls 
uhieh  are  (o  profit  by  the  proposed  improv.^ment ;  that  no  question  of 
coMlliclIng  power  or  jurisdiction  is  involve.l ;  that  the  expenditure  being 
HI  the  hands  oftho.se  who  are  to  p«y  the  money  and  be  iaimedinl.  ly 
ben.  filed,  will  be  more  carefully  mana^-ed  and  more  productive  of  good 
thin  if  the  funds  were  drawn  from  the  .National  Treasury  and  dishiKsed 
by  the  oiricers  of  the  fJeneral  (iovernmeni;  that  sucli  a  system  will 
carry  with  it  no  enlari;einent  of  Federal  power  nnd  patronaire,  and 
le,ne  the  Sliiles  to  be  ijie  sole  jud:r,,s  „(•  i\u\r  „wn  wants  nnd  iiUeresIs 
wiib  only  a  conservative  neaalive  in  Congress  upon  anv  abuse  of  the 
power  whi.'h  the  .Slates  may  attempt. 

Under  Ibis  wise  system  the  improvement  of  harbors  nn.l  rivers  Wiis 
commenccil,  or  rather  continue.l  from  the  organi/.atiim  of  the  (Jovern- 
ment  under  the  present  cniMtitutinn.  Many  acts  were  passed  by  tlie 
several  Stales  levyinn  duti.  s  of  lonn  ig  •  and  mi.nv  wire  passed  l,y 
CoML-ress  giving  their  con-^.  ot  to  Ihos..  „cls.  Sue'h  acts  hiive  bcri 
l.;ir,sed  by  MassachiHeiu  Chode  M  itid  IViuisvlvania  Maryland 
Vir-inia,  North  Caroliii.i.  South  drolin  i  and  Georgia  and  have 
iM'in  sanctioned  by  llie  eon.enl  of  Coonre-^s,  Witlioia  enumerating 
111.  Ml  all.  it  may  be  instructive  to  refer  to  some  of  ihem  as  ilhi.slrative 
of  ilie  mode  of  improving  harbors  nnd  rivers  in  Ihe  early  pi  riods  of 
oiir  Governuii  nl,  as  to  the  conslitutionalilv  of  wliicli  lliere  can  be  no 
iliiilbl. 

In  January,  I7!I0  the  State  of  liliode  Isbmd  pas.-ed  a  l.iw  levying' 
II  l.inn.ige  duly  on^essels  arriving  in  >li,.  |,,,rt  of  l>rovi,lenee.  '  lor'  Ihe 
IMirpi.se  of  charing  and  d.i  |.eiiiiiur  I'le  channel  of  I'rovidence  river 
iiiid  makiiiix  the  same  more  navi.f:ilde  " 

On  the 'Jd  of  February,  I7!I8  the  Shiie  of  ^fassaehu.setts  passed  a 
law  levying  a  lonnnge  duty  on  nil  vessels,  whether  finploved  in  the 
f'lreign  or  coasting  trade  which  might  enter  into  tlie  Kenmlmnk  river, 
*-ir  the  improvement  of  the  same,  by  •  niuh  ring  the  passage  in  and 
■Ml  of  said  river  less  dilVi.-ull  anil  daiiireroiis." 

On  the  1st  of  April,  18U0,  the  .State  of  Pennsylvania  passed  a  law 


344 


BPECIAI.    MK98A0K 


I    u,„„.,novc»lir  obHtnidinno  to  the 

L;>«.l;ion  or  th-  riv..r  n-i-;;;'"  J;'-,^'  :;";.,,i„i„  ,.,....,  .>  .aw 

,:::::sl:;-r;o„i::x%.r...^ 

-- ^:^^^::^^ 

,)„  ,1,0  8lh  of  DeoemLrr,  lH-1,  li'  _     ^     ^^,,,„  ,  u.r  navigation  ol 

A,,,on.atox  "vor  Kon.  «^  -  -';    '^1,^,  .,,,„„„,  ,.«...l  a  law  l.vy^ 
in.atonn«g.-au^vonv..s...k      or    >^1     1  ^_^„^,^,  j.„^.,   u,„„l     . 

,.„.,    i,nvrovin,  .h.'  nav,«alu,..  '       ''     ^'^^  ,^         ,,.,, 

in  Noveu.b..r,  ^H,^^  an  -'-;';  ^^  ;;;;,,  „!•  south  farohna  ,,a-snl 

«-l'"^''  >"  "-■  ^''•""'-   "  '     ;;t         L  ^'>"",re  of  that  Stau.  U.r  the 
IHl.;,  another  hnvwaM'^'-"'l'>",/    " 

...nainlenan..-  of  a  nu.nu.  ''-P'^''  '          ^,„  ,„.  ,-.,,„.„  ,k„sc>I   a  law 
On  the  UUU  of  K-hruary    /^'^    ^         ,,„,    ■  ,„  n..,  port  of  Savan- 
,,,vvin^  a  lonnairo  .lu.y  on  ah  ^^^'.^    "    ,,,,;„„.„„  river  of  -  wreck. 
n.,h    tor  .h.'    IMii'imse   ">    '.•'■•'f'":    ') 
:;::io.her..h^,-,K.i.-'.;.U.n.vua.o,, ,.  ,„.„,^;,  p,..,.,a   a   law 

l!m.u.h  an.l  St.  Ma-y 's  "  j  ,,  ,„,,  ,,,.„,.  a  t.-nnasc 

,n  April,  17-!,  th.-  Slate  o.  ^''^^     '    .\,,,.  ..  j^.in-  an.l  -  harbor    ot 
,,,„v  on  vessels,  f..r  .he  uupr.,veau.nlo>lh., 

,.„f,i,u,.re  an.l  the  "riv..-  ''•"•'l'^';-    ^^  «,„.  of  Maryland  passed  a  law 

-'  ^^""••'^i:::':,'v:stthei ,ve,uentof  .he   .harbor 

l,vvin'ia  ...noa-ie  .1.1  >  ■'" 

„„;i  l.ort  o>-  liah.  .......  ,.  ,„•  :\i  ,rvl  .n.l  p. *'-'''  ^'  ''^^ 

O,:  ,he  e^th  of  n.--b,r    .  ,     1     h  ^^   ^.^^    ^^^  .   ^^^^^^  ,,.  ,,_^„.. 

,.„„,.,™in.  th..  npp..u.....  ...  o    a       ..    I  ^^   ,^,_.        „^,  .„,„,„„,,. 

u,..r...  an,l  laying  a  .o.,na..-  .b  -y  "  >  ^  .  ^  ,  ^.,,„^„„^.,  i,  „.e«..  an.l 
.•„n..ress   has   pasH.-.l    a.  .ov   ..<■  ^.-'       -  i:.M),  an.l   the   last  .n 

„U.r  State  laws,  the  .ir.o.-wh,eh.,.^^ 

,„;,     Hy.hel:....ra.-.   .he      ' -;\,,  ^ .,;,„.,    ,.v:n.   a   .onnau.' 
law  of  the   I,e::isl.U..r..   oi  Uu:    ■  .•    ^  „,'  i;al..M...re,  an.l 

duly  on  vess.ls  for  .he  ....p.-.--"^  "'  "■ 


iv.vc  the  obstniotion*  to  liiP 
he  city  '  '  PhiliKl'''!'''"'" 
t..  of'vir«iniii  1)1>h>"''1  »  I'lW 
..nproving  the  n.ivis-ut.on  ol 

,t,.  of  Virginia  imHse.l   n  li>w 
i,„,,r..vi,.|:  tl>e  nHvigation  ol 

(.iuuliiit; "  , 

„,  „i'  Virginia  i<i»«i"-'l  ii  law 
.  in.im.vit.il  thr  navigation  ol 
e  t„  lUoadway  " 
h  Carolina  i.a««nl  a  law  U'vy- 
,,ar|..«.'ol-oi..nin,T«u.nUa  a 

V,  ,,l,u-.  rall.nl  N««  *  ll'^'"';    ■ 

;^l„„|     with  its  l'"*"'-'"'*  •      ""'' 

was  iiasKcil. 
;,,,l,.  of  South  (^.rolina  va-s-.l 
,„ri..«s,.  of  ■'  l-oil'li'V-'  »  '"''•""• 

„„',„„  .I.C  1-lh  of  l^''>"»'7- 
„  .i.h.U.r.  of  ll.at  Stale  lor  th.. 

S,  ,t,.  of  (l.or^ia  ,.a«sca  a  law 
,„  ,,„„  i„to  th-,  port  of  Savan- 
„,    s.o.ouah   river  of   '  wreclv. 

loo  ,  i„,„ 

Si  ,i.'  of  (ivor^'ia  pa*:"''!  i^  '''^ 
.  I,  .  ;,p,,li.Ml  to  t\u:  pay.n.i.l  ol 
:,UU  otVwer  of  tl.o  porl^  ol  Sa- 

,„1  n  ,ss.>l  a  law  layins  a  tonniu^e 


.„-;h.-l,..sin-ana''harl.or 


ol 


,  RtalfofMaryla.vlv^;^^«;\"|;'^ 
r  the  i:iiprov,' 


mentoflhe   'li'Tl"^'' 


„.S,at,.ofM.ryl>n.l,.>--"l^';^ 
,l,h   ollr.T   foi-   th'-   port  Ol   l.alU- 

v,ss,.l.t.,.lefr:.ytlu'eJi..n.t:s. 

„ivin,iH 'consent- to  th,*'  ami 

{;  .lat.  .1   i..    I '■»'.  '""'  ^'"'  '^"'  ,'" 
„l- of  r  ,n-rrss  w,is  e.iVrn    t) 


the 

loniia^e 


,,   ,„■  M  .-vl-n.l   l.y.oi   a   lont.a. 
,V  of  ll.    l>..rhor  of  r.alu,uoro,  an 


IP\     INTi:i!\At.    IMI'lln\  |:Mi:\Tfl. 


315 


ri.nlinuirif;  it  in  liin-e  unlll  llie  Isf  (l;iy  of  Jiiiu  .  IS.'i!!.  I  tran.^aiit  lure- 
Wilh  cnpiciior  siirli  of  lhc>  nets  of  the  I,ii;isintiiros  of  the  States  on 
the  Huhji'et,  mill  also  tlie  nets  of  < 'oM.rres<  ijiviiv^  its  '  eonsenl"  therrti), 
!i»  have  been  eolliitcil. 

That  tlie  power  was  eonstitnlionally  i ml  ri;;hlfiilly  exereisid  in  ilies" 
rasi's  does  i\iit  Miliiiit  iif  a  cloiiht. 

'I'lie  inju.slii'e  and  ine(|ii:ihly  rrsiillin^  fru.u  eoiii-ediiiij  the  power  to 
tii.lli  (iovernjiienls  is  ilhistmleil  liy  several  of  (he  e;  Is  eiiuiiKTateil 
T^ike  that  lor  the  improvement  oi'  thi'  liuliir  of  Uultiiuor".  'I'lial 
i.n|iroveinent  is  paiil  for  exclusively  hy  ;i  l<\  on  the  .-,iii  i;.,  rce  of 
l!i  il  city:  Imt  if  an  iipproprialion  hi'  m  >,!-•  from  t!ie  ,Nalioiiu'i  Treasury 
for  the  iaiprovemi  nt  of  the  harlior  of  IVisl.in.  il  mil-it  he   pi /il   in    p:irt 

out  of  taxes  levied  on  the  i imeree  of  Ualliaiore.     The  residt  is,  that 

llh- enimnere.' of  Uiiltimore  p'lys  the  lull  cost  of  the  harlior  Improve- 
iiiriii  i|esii;iieil  for  its  own  hiiielil,  iinil,  In  mldilion.  eonlrilmtes  to  t!ie 
(d-i  of  all  other  harlior  and  river  improveinents  in  the  fnion.  The 
laels  need  hut  hi'  Btateil  to  prove  the  inei(uahty  and  injustiee  wlileli 
eaniiot  hut  How  from  the  jpraetiec  emlioiiied  in  this  hill.  Hither  the 
fiilijict  shotiid  he  lell  as  it  was  ilurin;-  th.'  (iist  third  of  a  eenlury.  or 
the  praetiee  of  levvino;  tonnaire  dulirs  liy  llie  Mutes  should  he  ulian- 
dun  il  alloiiether  and  all  liarhor  and  river  iiiiprovcMients  ni-iile  under 
t  I'  iiitiii.riiy  of  l!ie  ("n;|i',l  St:iiiM  :,■■  ]  |,y  iniiins  of  direet  appropria- 
liiias  III  view  not  only  of  tiie  const. liilioii:il  dilliculty,  hut  lis  a  ques- 
liMii  of  policy,  I  mil  clearly  of  opinion  that  the  whole  liuhject  should 
!"•  left  to  the  .States,  aided  hy  such  toiiniiije  dutie.s  on  vessels  naviirat- 
ini;  their  waters  as  their  nspeelivft  LerjisIuturcH  may  think  proper  to 
propose  anil  Coiiirres.s  see  fit  to  sanction.  This  "  consent"  of  Oonijress 
would  never  he  i;efused  in  any  case  where  the  duty  propiMed  to  be 
l>  \i'd  hy  the  State  was  reasonable,  and  where  the  object  of  improve- 
inrnl  was  one  of  importance  The  funds  required  for  the  improveijient 
of  harliors  and  rivers  may  be  raised  in  this  mode,  as  was  done  in  the 
e  irlier  [leviods  ol  the  (>ovirnment  and  thus  avoid  n  resort  to  a  strained 
consl ruction  of  ;!>.?  e.inslitution,  not  warranted  hy  its  letter.  If  direct 
iippropriatidns  be  niude  of  the  money  in  the  Federal  Treasury  fur  such 
piirpo.ses.  the  expenditures  will  be  uniqual  and  unjust.  The  momy 
ill  the  l-'ederal  Treasury  is  paid  by  a  tax  on  the  whole  people  of  the 
T'niled  Stales,  and  if  applied  to  the  purposes  of  improvini;  harbors  and 
rivers,  il  will  be  partially  distributed,  and  be  expended  tor  the  advan- 
taL'"  of  particular  States,  sections,  or  localities,  at  tho  expense  of 
olhers. 

Hy  returning  to  the  early  and  approved  construction  of  the  conslilu- 
tion.  and  to  the  practice  under  it,  this  inequality  and  injustice  will  be 
avoided,  and,  at  the  same  lime,  all  the  really  important  iiuprovemcnts 


1 

J 
t 


■•^'lyji'  .'^^ 


^:KgSK5??5!5?T^^^^ 


946  SPECIAI-    MESSAOB 

be  made,  and,  ai  our  experience  hn»  proved,  be  belter  mnde,  and  at 
leas  co»t,  than  they  would  be  by  the  agency  of  oflir.-ni  of  the  I'nitid 
Slalrri.      The  interest!  benefited  by  these  improvement*,  too,  would 
b.  ar  the  coit  of  making  them,  upon  the  same  principle  that  the  expenses 
of  the  Post  Ollire  estubliahment  have  always  been  defrayed  by  those 
who  derive  bcnifits  from  it.    The  power  of  appropriating  money  from 
the  Treasury  for  such  iiiiprovemcnts  was  not  claimed  or  exercised  for 
more  than  thirty  years  after  the  organisation  of  the  Oovernment  in 
17H1),  when  a  more  huitudinous  construction  was  indicated,  ihousrh  it 
was  not  broadly  asserted  and  exercised  until  18v!5.     Small  appropria- 
tions were  first  made  in  1820  and  IMil  for  surveys.     An  act  was  made 
on  the  3d  of  March,  18i3,  authorising  the  President  to  cause  an   '  ex- 
amination and  survey  to  be  made  of  the  obstructions  between  the  hiir- 
bor  of  Gloucester  and  the  harbor  of  Squam,  in  the  State  of  Massa- 
chusi  Its,"  and  of  '  the  entrance  of  the  harbor  of  the  port  of  Presqiie 
Isle,  in  Pennsylvania,"  with  a  view  to  their  removal,  and  a  smnll  ajv 
proprialion  was  made  to  pay  the  necessary  expenses.     This  appears  to 
have  been  the  commencement  of  harbor  improvements  by  Congress, 
thirty-four  years  after  the  Government  went  into  operation  under  the 
present  constitution.    On  the  30th  April,  18-24,  an  act  was  passed  mak- 
ing an  appropriation  of  thirty  thousand  dollars,  and  directing;  "  surv.'vs 
and  estimates  to  be  nude  of  the  r..uti.s  oi'  »ueh   roads  and  c-.uial, 
as  the  President  "  may  deem  of  national  importance,  in  a  commercial 
or  military  point  of  view,  or  nccessftry  for  the  transportation  of  the 
mails,"     This  act  evidently  looked  to  the  adoption  of  a  general  sys- 
tem of  internal  improvements,  to  embrace  roads  and  canals  as  well  as 
horbors  and  rivers.     On  the  2Uth  May,  1804,  an  act  was  passed  mak- 
ing appropriations  for  "  deepening  the  channel  leading  into  the  harbor 
of  Presque  Isle,  in  the  State  oi'  Pennsylvania,"  and  to   ■  repair  Ply- 
mouth Beach,  in  the  State  of  Massachusetts,  and  thereby  prevent  tlie 
harbor  at  that  place  from  being  destroyed." 

President  Monroe  yielded  his  approval  to  these  measures,  though  ho 
entertained,  and  had,  in  a  message  to  the  House  of  Representatives  on 
the  4th  of  May,  1823,  expressed  the  opinion,  that  the  constitution  had 
not  conferred  upon  Congress  the  power  to  "  adopt  and  execute  a  sys- 
tem of  internal  improvements."  He  placed  his  approval  upon  the 
ground,  not  that  Congress  possessed  the  po*er  to  "  adopt  and  execute" 
such  a  system  by  virtue  of  any  or  all  of  the  enumerated  grants  of 
power  in  the  constitution,  but  upon  the  assumption  that  the  power  to 
make  appropriations  of  the  public  money  was  limited  and  restrained 
only  by  the  discretion  of  Congress.  In  coming  to  this  conclusion  ho 
avowed  that  '•  in  the  more  early  stage  of  the  Government"  he  had  en- 
tertained a  different  opinion.     He  avowed  that  his  first  opinion  had 


—m'iWfeVv^' 


at 


ON    INTKUNAI,    IMI'llOS  r,Mi;\TH. 


ni7 


J,  be  belter  made,  and  ot 
y  of  oflii  :t«  of  the  I'nili'J 

improvcmcnU,  too,  would 
B  principle  lliat  the  cxpcnsis 
y»  been  defrayed  by  tlionc 
'  appropriating  money  from 
)l  cioimcd  or  exerciwHl  for 
lion  ol'  the  Oovernment  in 
)n  was  indicated,  ihousfli  it 
;il  1825.  Small  nppropria- 
•urveyi.  An  act  wa«  miide 
Preiident  to  cauw  an  •'  ex- 
)8tructioni  between  the  hur- 
\m,  in  the  State  of  Mhssh- 
bor  of  the  port  of  Presqiu; 
X  removal,  and  a  small  ajv 

expenses.  This  appcara  to 
improvements  by  Congress, 
nt  into  operation  under  the 
3"2-t,  an  act  was  passed  ninlc- 
lliirs,  and  dircctiny;  "  surv  .yn 
if  »uc!i  ro.ids  tuid  iMii.il> 
iiiportanoe,  in  a  commeroiil 
ir  the  transportation  of  the 
(  adoption  of  a  general  Rys- 
roads  and  canals  as  well  as 
i04,  an  act  was  passed  mnli- 
nncl  leading  into  the  harbor 
Ivania,"  and  to  ■  repair  Ply- 
tts,  and  thereby  prevent  the 

lo  these  measures,  though  ho 
House  of  Representatives  on 
on,  that  the  constitution  had 
»  "  adopt  and  execute  a  sy3- 
aced  his  approval  upon  the 
io*er  to  "  adopt  and  execute" 
if  the  enumerated  grants  of 
isumption  that  the  power  to 
f  was  limited  and  restrained 
oming  to  this  conclusion  he 
the  Government"  he  had  en- 
d  that  his  first  opinion  had 


been,  that,  "  ns  the  \iilioniil  rf()V(riiini  III  in  a  uovernnipnt  ,if  liinitr.l 

|ii>\V(r«,  it  IlllH  no  rii;llt  In  eX|Mlld  llliiin  y  cXi'eipt  III  llle  piTliirillillli'i'  (if 
nets  lUitiiDrized  liy  llie  oilier  «p' I'ifir  i;i  iiil^,  lU'enrliM;;  lo  'i  hliic't  ciiii- 
hlrucliiiii  of  their  powers;  '  and  thut  lli<  [lawer  In  iii  ike  ii|i|ii  ipii.itinns 
t;ave  to  I'ongrcHs  mi  iliseretioimry  nutlmrily  to  "I'ply  tlie  piiMie  iiioii.y 
til  any  other  piflr|iiiiieH  or  objerls  except  lo  ■  eurry  uiUt  iil\et  the  I'ljxcr-H 
cipiitiiiiud  in  the  other  grants."  'I'litse  sound  views,  which  Mr.  .Vtnii- 
rm  eiitertiined  in  tin;  early  stajje  of  llie  Oovi:rniiiciit  "  he  }J!.ive  up  in 
I --J,  and  declared  that-- 

•  'I'lie  right  of  iippropiialii)n  is  nnlliin;;  iiinri^  lliun  u  riijllt  In  apply 
tlie  pulilic  money  to  tills  or  tliat  piii'pns  ',  Ii  Iimh  mo  Ineiili  iilal  pnvi  r. 
Iinr  cloes  it  draw  aCler  il  any  eoiisequi  ii  th  of  that  kliul.  All  tlial  C'nii- 
i^'i'i'ss  entild  do  under  it,  in  the  case  of  internal  iinproveiiieiits,  would  bi: 
In  appropriate  the  money  necessary  to  make  them.  For  any  act  re- 
(|iilriiig  legislative  sunclinn  or  support  the  State  authority  must  lie  ri  llnl 
on.  The  condeiniiatliin  of  the  land  If  the  prnpri  tnrs  slinuKI  refuse  In 
Bi  II  il,  lilt!  estalillshiiient  of  luiiiiiiki's  and  lolls,  and  the  proteelion  of 
tlie  work  when  lliiished,  musi  lie  done  liy  the  State.  To  these  purposes 
the  powers  of  the  General  Oovernment  arc  believed  to  be  utterly  in- 
competent." 

But  it  is  impossible  to  conceive  on  what  principle,  the  power  of  ap- 
propriating pulilic  money  when  in  the  'I'rea.sury  ean  be  conslrued  to 
extend  lo  olijeets  for  which  the  constitutinn  does  not  authorize  Congress 
to  levy  taxes  or  imposts  to  raise  money.  The  |)OWir  of  ap|)roprlatinn 
is  but  the  consequence  of  the  power  to  raise  money  ;  and  the  true  in- 
quiry is,  whether  Congress  bus  the  right  to  levy  taxes  lor  the  object 
over  which  power  is  claimed. 

During  the  four  succeeding  years  rmbraced  by  the  administrnlion  of 
President  Adams,  the  power  not  only  lo  appropriate  money,  hut  to  ap 
ply  it,  under  the  direction  and  authority  of  the  General  Government, 
as  well  lo  the  construction  of  roads  as  to  the  improvement  of  harbors 
and  rivers,  was  fully  asserted  and  exercised. 

Among  other  acts  assuming  the  power,  was  one  passed  on  the  twen- 
tieth of  May,  18"Jl),  entitled  '•  An  act  for  improving  certain  harbors  and 
the  navigation  of  certain  rivers  and  creeks,  and  for  authorizing  surveys 
to  be  made  of  certain  bays,  sounds,  and  rivers  therein  mentioned.' 
Uy  that  act  large  appropriations  were  made,  which  were  to  be  ••  applied 
under  the  direction  of  the  President  of  the  United  States"  to  numerous 
improvements  in  ten  of  the  Stales.  This  act.  passed  thirty-seven  years 
afttr  the  organization  of  the  present  Government,  con|pined  the  first 
appropriation  ever  made  for  the  improvement  of  a  navigable  river,  un- 
less it  be  small  appropriations  tor  oxaiiiinations  and  surveys  in  18'i0. 
During  the  residue  of  that  Administrailnn  many  other  appropriations 


~?^" 


348 


HrKClAL    MK»HA(JK 


".n,!  oanul.,  an.i  ol.j-.'..  .•Iai,nin«  iho  ui.l  of  Congre..  m..ll.pl..M  with- 

"";;:::t;:  th.  fir.t  ..r.ach  envce..  in  .he  ..rncr  whi.-h  ih.  u^iv... 
oniniononlwlranwr.  of  th.  ron.titu.ion   h,..l   for  more  Umn  tl ur.y 

T  .  K  n  -ral  ,nin,l  of  <  'on^r,.-.  an,l  .h ,,u,.ry  ,ii.l  no.  «pp lat-  .1  . 

;;,::.,L.  .«k..n  Wy  I.n.i,U.n.  M„n..  hH^.-n  .h-  -^l^^^^ 

„„„H.v  for  nn  ohj-r.  ami  .he  ri^'hl  .o  apply  an,l  rxpoml   .    w.thou.      .. 

:  l,..n..  an,l   .l-lay  of  appli-a.,o,..  ,o  .h.-   ^<';>"7 ';;;::::       ' 

„?^    h-  noo.l-K«.rH  l..-in,  Ihu.  hoiH..,!  .h-  prinripl.  h...l  .lown   h.   h  n 

:;;i;i;  J  ««.•:;.,  an.  npp,i.-a.ion.  n.r  ai..  .vo,n  "'Y^-^T;::  li  J 

to  m«kr  harborH  a.  well  «h  inM^rov  Ihnn,  rlrnr  ou.  nv.rH.  .  «t  .  ...a  h 

.  n..ruo.  ro pouro.i  in.o  Oon.ro-K  in  .orren,.  «n„   arr,....!     y 

,h,.  vHo  of  lTc.i,l-n.  JackKon.     Hi- vHo  of  .ho  May-v.ll.,  Roa,l   h.l 
1  U    OW...1  up  l.y  hi.  r,.f«.,l  .o  si.rn  .1,.  ■'  no.  making  npproprm.u.n. 
b   hui    in.r  hA.hou.,H,  li,h.hoa.-,  hoacon.,  nn.l  monumen.-  pla-,n, 
"unv"  i  lovin,  harhor.,  an.l  .liror.inj  m.rvoy« ;"  "  an  ao.  «u.hon-/.>n. 
Z^i     in  forslook  in  .ho  I-o>mvillo  and  l-orthmd  Canal  Coo.pany  I 
o  r,„r  ,h.  i„.prov,.,nont  of  oor.ain  harbor-  an.l  ,h«  nav,«a  -on  o 

CO    a"n  river-;"  ami  llnallv   'an  art  to  m.prove  tho  nav.^.tu.n  ol  tU, 
VVahn-h  river."     In  hi.  ol-iootionB  to  the  aot  last  namo.l  ho  -ay- : 

:;^o  .  Hire  .0  en.hark  ,ho  Fo.loral  Oovornn.ent  in  --^^  o  ,n  ornal 
i,nprovementprovailo.l,inthc  hi«he-t  do„rec,  dur.nR  the  "^^t  -o.  on 
o  .he  fir-t  c;  ,n«ro-  .hat  I  had  .he  honor  to  meet  .n  my  present  -  tua- 
"ion  When  .he  hill  authorizing  a  .ub-crip.-on  on  the  par  nt  the 
I-  iu..!  S  ate-  for  -tuck  in  tho  May.viUe  and  Lcx.ng.on  Turnp.kc 
r  lany  pa-od  the  two  Hou-e-,  there  had  boon  reported  by  .he  .  o  ■  - 
,00  on 'internal  Improvement-  lilU  conta.nmg  "PP;;!'-"  ''^ 

l,oh.,njoo.-.oxcl«-ivc   oftho-e   for  the  Cumberland    Ho"'       ■  >  for 
h  r  or-  and  lighthou-e-,  to  the  amount  of  about  one  hundred  ami  -  x 
;SonBO    dollar-.      In  thi-  amount  wa.  included   au.hor.ty    o  the 
C    etary  of  the  Treasury  to  -nh-cribo  for  the  -took  of  .  .n-erent  ..on.- 
In      uf  a  grer-t  extent,  and  the  re-iduc  wa-  principally  for  the  d.rcct 
'   nTnc  ion  of  roa.U  by  thi-  Government.     In  addition  to  these  pro- 
r;  Sh  h  ve  beeypre-ented  to  the  two  House-  under  the  -anCo,. 
nd  recommendation  of  their  respective  Commit.ee-  on  Internal     m- 
^^vlcnt-  there  were  then  rtill  pending  before  the  committee-  and 
[nmemoria  U  to  Congress,  pre«>nted  but  not  referred,  d.fferen    pro,oo.- 
for  wo"krof  «imilaVcharacter,  the  cxpen-e  of  which  cannot  be  est.- 
ItTwIth  certainty  but  must  have  exceeded  one  hundred  m.lhonBof 
dollars," 


HAtJR 

liriirini!   romU,  rivew,  linrtinrn, 
I  of  ( 'onurmi*  inulliplit'il  with 

He  bnrricr  which  Ihr  univrrwil 
on   hii<l   for  morn  thnn  thirty 
inn  of  lhi«  |H>wrr  by  Cotvzu-**. 
i-o.iiitry  iliil  not  npprrciat.'  thr 
rtwrrn  ihi-  richt  to  iiiipr.Miriiiti' 
ply  iin.l  fxponil   it  without  the 
liH  to  thi-   Stall'   (JoviTlinirntn. 
iBH.'h  BnHppliciili<'i>WM«nmi!r, 
ll„.  prinrii>li'  Ini'l  ''"«">   ''.V  him 
ill  from  the  Treii»ury,  virtually 
■111,  rlrnr  out  river*,  cut  c-aiialH, 
OHH  ill  torrentu  until  iirrcHliil  hy 
•to  of  the  Mnynvill.!   Roail    hill 
ilifj  "  net  making  nppropriatioii.i 
icon*,  and  innnunicnfH,  placing' 
I  »urvoy« ;"  "  ""  b""*  nuthorizinii 
uid  I'ortland  Cnniil  Company  !" 
I  harbom  ami  thfi  nuvi^jaliori  of 

improve  the  iinviiiition  of  tin 
he  act  lust  namcil  b.'  savH : 
novernment  in  works  of  inlrrnul 

deHrco,  during  the  first  s(  ssii.n 
nor  to  meet  in  my  present  nitua- 
lubucription  on  the  part  of  thr 
gvilln  and   Lexington  Turnpike 
•e  had  been  reported  by  the  Coiii- 
U  containing  Rppropriations  for 
the  Cumberland   Road,  and  tor 
It  of  nhout  one  hundred  aiii  hIx 
twa»  included  iiuthority  I"  the 
0  for  the  stork  of  dilTcrent  com- 
luc  was  principally  for  the  direct 
ncnt.     In  addition  to  these  pro- 
tie  two  Houses  under  the  sanction 
live  Committees  on  Internal  im- 
nding  before  the  committees  and 
but  not  referred,  different  proji'cts 
expense  of  which  cannot  be  esti- 
cxeceded  one  hundred  million*  of 


ON    INTKRNAI.    IMPRoVKMENTH. 


340 


Thus,  within  the  brief  jieriod  of  less  thnn  ten  yearn  alter  the  rnm- 
mencement  of  internal  improvements  by  the  tJeneral  (lovernment,  tUo 
■um  asked  for  I'roni  the  Treasury  for  various  projects  amounted  to  mom 
than  two  hundred  millions  of  dollars.  President  Jackson's  powerl'ul 
anil  disinterested  »p|hniIs  to  his  country  appear  to  have  put  down  for- 
ever the  assumption  of  |M>wer  to  make  roads  and  cut  canals,  nnd  to 
have  checked  the  prevalent  dis|KMitinn  to  bring  all  rivers  in  any  de^ri  e 
navigable  within  the  control  of  the  General  Government.  Itut  an 
immense  field  for  expending  the  public  money  and  increasing  the  |Hiwer 
nnd  patronage  of  this  Ooverninent  was  letl  ofarn  in  the  concession  of 
even  ■  limited  power  of  (-'ongress  to  improve  harbors  nnd  rivers — a 
tlelil  which  millions  will  not  tiirlilixe  to  the  satisfaction  of  those  local 
and  speculating  inlen^sts  by  which  these  projects  are  in  general  gotten 
up.  There  cannot  he  a  just  and  e(|uol  distribution  of  public  burdens 
and  benefits  under  such  a  system,  nor  can  the  States  bo  relieved  from 
the  danger  of  fatal  encroachment,  nor  the  United  States  from  the  eipial 
danger  of  conHolidation,  otherwise  thnn  by  an  arrest  of  the  system, 
nnd  a  return  to  the  iloetrines  and  practices  which  prevailed  during  the 
lirst  thirty  years  of  Ihr  Oovernmenl. 

•How  forcibly  does  the  history  of  this  subject  illustrate  the  tendency 
of  power  to  concentration  in  tlie  hands  of  the  Oeneral  (iovernment. 
The  power  to  improve  their  own  harbors  nnd  rivers  was  clearly  ro- 
serveil  to  the  .Stales,  who  were  to  be  aided  by  tonnage  duties  levied 
and  collected  by  themselves,  with  the  consent  of  Congress.  For  thirty- 
four  years  improvements  were  carried  on  under  that  system,  and  so 
careful  was  Congress  not  to  interfere,  under  any  implied  power,  with 
the  soil  or  jurisdiction  of  the  States,  that  they  did  not  even  assuiiie  the 
))ower  to  erect  lighthouses  or  build  piers  without  first  purchasing  the 
ground,  with  the  consent  of  the  States,  nnd  obtaining  jurisdiction 
over  it.  At  length,  aller  the  lapse  of  thirty-three  years,  nn  act  is 
passed  providing  for  the  examination  of  certain  obstructions  at  the 
mouth  of  one  or  two  harbors  almost  unknown.  It  is  followed  by  nets 
making  small  appropriations  fur  the  removal  of  those  obstructions. 
The  obstacles  inter|)ose(l  by  President  Monroe,  after  conceding  the 
(lower  to  appropriate,  wi.'re  soon  swept  away.  Congress  virtually  as- 
sumed jurisdiction  of  the  soil  and  waters  of  the  States,  without  their 
consent,  for  the  purposes  ot'  internal  improvement,  and  the  eyes  oi' 
eager  millions  were  turned  t'rom  the  State  Governments  to  Congress  as 
the  fountain  whose  golden  streams  were  to  deepen  their  harbors  and 
rivers,  level  their  mountains,  and  fill  their  valleys  with  canals.  To 
what  consequences  this  assumption  of  power  was  rapidly  leading  is 
shown  hy  the  veto  niessiiges  of  President  Jucksor>;  nnd  to  what  end  it 


1 

ft 

I 


850 


SPECIAL    MESSAGE 


K  asain  tending  ia  witnewed  by  the  provbions  of  this  bill  and  bill*  of 

Biiiiilar  cliaracter.  •  „,i,;„u 

In  the  proceeding,  and  debate,  of  the  General  Convent.on  vvh.ch 
formed  the  constitution,  and  of  the  State  Convention,  which  adopted 
it  nolhinn  i.  found  to  countenance  the  idea  that  the  one  intended  to  pro- 
pose, or  the  other,  to  concede,  .uch  a  grunt  of  power  to  the  O^-nef" 
Oovernment  a.  the  building  up  and  maintaining  of  a  sy.temo  internal 
iinproveinenl.  within  the  State,  necessarily  implies.     Whatever 
General  Govem.nent  may  constitutionally  create,  it  may  lawfully  pro- 
tect     If  it  may  make  a  road  U|)on  the  soil  of  the  Stale.,  it  may  pro- 
tect it  from  destruction  or  injury  by  penal  law..     So  of  canals,  rivers 
and  hurhor..     If  it  m«y  put  a  dam  in  a  river,  it  may  protect  that  da.n 
from  re...oval  or  injury,  in  direct  opposition  to  the  laws,  aulhoatits, 
and  people  of  the  Slate  in  which  it  is  siluat-d.     II  it  may  deepen   a 
barhor,  it  may  by  it.  own  laws  protect  its  age.its  and  contractors    ,o 
.  being  driven  from  tb-ir  work,  even  by  the  laws  and  authorities  ot  ih 
State      The  power  to  make  a  road  or  canal,  or  to  dig  up  the  bottom  ot 
a  harbor  or  river,  impli-'S  a  right  in  the  .oil  of  the  Slate,  and  a  juris- 
diction  over  it,  for  which  it  would  be  impossible  to  find  any  warrant. 

The  State,  were  particularly  jealous  of  conceding  to  the  General 
Government  any  right  of  jurisdiction  over  their  soil,  and  in  the  consti- 
tution restricted  the  exclusive  legislation  of  Congress  to  such  places  as 
mijrht  he  "  purchased  with  the  consent  of  the  Stale,  in  which  the  same 
.hall  be  for  the  erection  of  forU  magazine.,  dock-yard.,  and  other 
needful  buildings."  That  the  United  States  should  be  prohibited  Irom 
purchasing  'and.  within  the  State.,  without  their  consent,  even  for 
r  TeLntial  purpo.e.  of  national  defence,  while  left  at  liberty  ,o 
purchase  or  .eiie  them  for  roads,  canal.,  and  other  improvemenU  ot 
immeasurably  les.  importance,  i.  not  to  be  conceived 

A  proposition  wa.  made  in  the  Convention  to  provide  for  the  appoint- 
ment of  n  "  Secretary  of  Domestic  Affair.,"  and  make  it  his  duty, 
amonT  other  thing.,  "  to  attend  to  the  opening  of  roads  and  naviga- 
tion. Tnd  the  facilitating  communications  through  the  UmteJ  S^^atcs. 
U  was  referred  to  a  committee,  and  that  appear,  to  have  been  the  last 
of  it  On  a  subsequent  occasion  a  proposition  was  made  to  confi :  on 
Congress  the  power  to  '  provide  for  the  cutting  <"-.-"'''7'»'=" ''^^^"'f^ 
necessary,"  which  was  rejected  by  the  .trong  majority  of  eight  State, 
to  three.  Among  the  rea«>n.  given  for  the  rejection  "f  thi.  propos.- 
tion.it  was  urged  that  -the  expense  ia  .uch  case,  wul  .all  on  the 
United  State.,  and  the  benefits  accrue  to  the  place,  where  the  canal. 

mav  be  cut."  •  •  i„  i„ 

During  the  consideration  of  tlii.  proposition  a  motion  wa.  made    o 

enlarge  the  proposed  power  "  for  cutting   canal."  into  a  power    to 


ON    INTERNAL    IMPROVEMENTS. 


351 


lAOE 

iiions  of  this  bill  and  bills  of 

le  General  Convention  which 
!  Conventiona  which  ailopleil 
Btt  Ihutthe  one  intended  to  pro- 
mt of  power  to  the  Generul 
itaining  of  a  sygtem  of  internal 
iurily  impUes.     Whatever  tlie 
ly  create,  it  may  lawfully  pro- 
soil  of  the  Stales,  it  may  pro- 
il  laws.     So  of  canals,  rivers, 
river,  it  may  protect  that  dam 
ailion  to  the  laws,  aulhoiitit-s, 
jiluatfd.     If  it  may  deepen  a 
s  agents  and  contniclors  from 
le  laws  and   authorities  of  tin: 
inal,  or  to  dig  up  the  boUom  of 
soil  of  the  State,  and  a  juris- 
po.«ible  to  find  any  warrant. 

of  conceding  to  the  General 
(er  their  soil,  and  in  the  consti- 
I  of  Congress  to  such  places  aH 
of  the  Slates  in  which  the  same 
razines,  dock-yards,  and  other 
Itates  should  be  prohibited  from 
without  their  consent,  even  for 

defence,  while  left  at  liberty  to 
Is,  and  other  improvements  of 
1  be  conceived. 

ention  to  provide  for  the  appoint- 
.ffairs,"  and  make  it  his  duly, 
opening  of  roads  and  naviga- 
ms  through  the  UniteJ  States." 
It  appears  to  have  been  the  last 
>po9ition  was  made  to  con  ft:  on 
!  cutting  of  canals  when  deemed 

strong  majority  of  eight  States 
)t  the  rejection  of  this  proposi- 
e  in  such  cases  will  fall  on  the 
I  to  the  places  where  the  canals 

(position  a  motion  was  made  to 
tting  canals"  into  a  power  "  to 


grant  charters  of  incorporation,  when  the  interest  of  the  United  State* 
■night  require,  and  the  legislative  provisions  of  the  individual  States 
n)iiy  be  incompetent;"  and  the  reason  assigned  by  Mr.  Madison  for  the 
proposed  enlargement  of  the  power  was,  that  it  would  "  secure  an  easy 
cujnniunication  between  the  States  which  the  free  intercourse  now  to 
be  opened  seemed  to  call  for.  The  political  obstacles  being  removed, 
n  removal  of  the  natural  ones,  as  far  as  possible,  ought  to  follow." 

The  original  proposition  and  all  the  amendments  were  rejected,  after 
di'llbcrate  discussion,  not  on  the  ground,  as  so  much  of  that  discussion 
;i«  hiis  been  preserved  indicates,  that  no  direct  grant  was  necessary, 
but  becuuse  it  was  deemed  inexpedient  to  grant  it  at  all.  When  it  is 
considered  that  some  of  the  members  of  the  Convention,  who  after- 
wards participated  in  the  organization  and  administration  of  the  Gov- 
ernment, advocated  and  pr.uii.H'l  upon  a  very  liberal  construction  of 
the  constitution,  grasping  at  many  high  powers  as  implied  in  Its  various 
provisions,  not  one  of  them,  it  is  believed,  at  that  day  claimed  the 
power  to  make  roads  and  canals,  or  improve  rivers  and  harbors,  or  ap- 
propriate money  for  that  purpose.  Among  our  early  statesmen  of  the 
strict  construction  class  the  opinion  was  universal,  when  the  subject 
was  first  broached,  that  Congress  did  not  possess  the  power,  although 
some  of  them  thought  it  desirable. 

President  Jefferson,  in  his  message  to  Congress  in  1806,  recommended 
an  amendment  of  the  constitution,  witU  a  view  to  apply  an  anticipated 
surplus  in  the  Treasury  '-  to  the  great  purposes  of  the  public  education, 
roads,  rivers,  canals,  and  such  other  objects  of  public  improvements 
as  it  may  be  thought  proper  to  add  to  the  constitutional  enumeration 
of  the  federal  powers;"  and  he  adds:  "  I  suppose  an  amendment  to 
the  constitution,  by  consent  of  the  States,  necessary,  'because  the  ob- 
JHcts  now  recommended  are  not  among  those  enumerated  in  the  con- 
stitution, and  to  which  it  permits  the  public  moneys  to  be  applied." 
In  I8'25.  he  i;epeated,  in  his  published  letters,  the  opinion  that  no  such 
power  has  been  conferred  upon  Congress. 

Presid'  nt  Madison,  in  a  message  to  the  House  of  Representatives 
of  the  3d  of  March,  1817,  assigning  his  objections  to  a  bill  entitled 
"  An  act  to  set  apart  and  pledge  certain  funds  for  internal  improve- 
ments." declares  that  "  the  power  to  regulate  commerce  among  the 
several  States  cannot  include  a  power  to  construct  roads  and  canals, 
and  to  improve  the  navigation  of  water-courses,  \n  order  to  facilitate, 
promote,  and  secure  such  commerce,  without  a  latitude  of  construc- 
tion departing  from  the  ordinary  import  of  the  terms  strengthened  by 
the  known  inconveniences  which  doubtless  led  to  the  grant  of  this  re- 
medial power  to  Congress." 

President  Monroe,  in  a  rngMage  to  the  House  of  Representatives  of 


352 


SPECIAL    MEt*SAGE 


,He  4th  of  M.y,  18.2,  containing  »us  '^^Z^:^::^^^^. 
act  for  the  preservation  and  repa     o    t^e  Cua  .^.^,  .^  „„i,„-      . 

..Commerce  between  independent  powers  o^      ^^  ^^     ^^^^  ^^  ^^^^ 

sally  regulated  by  '\"''«f„;"„'*f  ,2  e^„i^^  respect  to 

States  before  Jhe  adoption  of  IJ^b  con  ^„j  ,e.«iU  employed 

each  other  and  to  foreign  powew.     J*;^  »     .         ^^  ^^^  ^^^  „„  „„„„ 

in  the  trade  are  the  «"'^ '"i^*^ Ju^  jSand  i'"P«'''' «  «8ard  to 
other.  A  power,  then,  to  "»P«« '"^''^''^t^tide  belween  the  States, 
foreign  nation.,  and  to  prevent  any  on  the 

was  the  only  power  granted.  „    .^^ed  the  adoption  of  thiscon- 

..  If  we  recur  to  the  causes  which  F'^""^         ^^  regulation  of 

stitution,  we  shall  find  that  •^-"^y^fSntages  anticipated  from 

trade  by  the  States  "-pecUvely.  and  the  advan    g      ^^^  ^^^^  ^^^ 

the  transfer  of  the  P«^"/°  ^"'?'^"'' TnltL  in  regard  to  foreign 
the  most  weight.    ^-^^.'^^^^^^^Z^Z^i  a  sysfem  of  restraint 
powers,  the  States,  «»'»'^'^»:'"7i'' ^^^"eign  powers  were  promoted 
Z  each  other,  whereby  ^^^"^^^^1^^^^^  a^ies  on  the  goods  or 
at  their  expense.    ^^  ""•'^^'touTlSTalthf  regulation,  of  such  power, 
vessels  of  a  foreign  power  to  "^"""'"^J^  J  to  invite  those  articles 
the  next  adjoining  States  '-^^^  ''^J^^Xed  thence  into  the  other 
into  their  ports,  that  they  «'fh\  J^  ~\his  contracted  policy  in 
States,  ^curing  the  '^^^'\'l^^Z^!\y  others.    Restraints  were 
some  of  the  States  was  '"O"  ^"""^f ^^  ^e  suffering  State.:  and  thus 
i„.,„ediately  laid  <>- '"»'=j2TdUord' .^  and  unnatural,  the  tendency 
had  grown  up  a  state  "^  fj'''"  J"°2f  and  with  it  all  hope  of  real.z- 
of  which  was  to  destroy  the  U"'""  •'f^^' ''^"j  f,„^  ^he  glorious  revalu- 
ing those  blessings  which  we  had  a^^-P^^^"^  ^^  ^  ^hi.  deplorable  di- 
;ra'':r\rr^-rnrrir;"happi.y.e.uedhyt.^ 

was  the  complete  aboition  of  thu^^^^^^  Lmmerce,  into  one  corn- 

brought  together  by  ^^e  consUl^.on.  as  ^^^^^     ^^^  ^^^ 

munity.  equally  in  -f"^  .»»J3,7;;rLth  respecU  as  one  people, 
ulation.  that  were  adopted  "garded  us  »  J-  ^^^  „,crchandiso 

The  duties  and  imposU  that  «f '"J  ""J 'J^^^  j^e  United  States,  and 
of  foreign  nations  were  «»  «-'»^^^J^;^:,";j  „„  uuUes  of  any  kind 
-   ;^riJ:;:::rrrX"j:;;r  ditent  poru  ana  count..  wUh. 

rSr.  Bupported  ^y-er^of  m^asure^aU  <^^^ 


GE 

tiong  to  a  bill  entitled  "  An 
;uniberland  road,"  declares, 
•g  or  coininunitiet  m  univer-     • 
It  was  BO  regulated  by  the 
tution,  equally  in  respect  to 
goods  and  vessels  employed 
ulation.    It  can  act  on  none 
ies  and  imposts  in  regard  to 
e  trade  between  the  States, 

wed  the  adoption  of  thU  con- 
ning from  the  regulation  ot 
advantages  anticipated  from 
,ere  among  those  which  had 

nation  in  regard  to  foreign 
imenced  a  system  of  restraint 
foreign  powers  were  promoted 

high  duties  on  the  goods  or 
the  regulations  of  such  power, 
r  duties  lo  invite  those  articles 
wferred  thence  into  the  other 
,68     This  contracted  policy  m 
ed  by  others.    Restrainte  were 
the  suffering  States:  and  thus 
ly  and  unnatural,  the  tendency 
If,  and  with  it  all  hope  of  realiz- 
ipated  from  the  glorious  revolu- 
ved      From  this  deplorable  di- 
happily  rescued  by  the  adoption 

,t  effecte  of  this  great  revolution 
dcious  policy.  The  States  were 
as  to  commerce,  into  one  com- 
itions  and  each  other.  The  reg- 
s  in  both  respecte  as  one  people, 
on  the  vessels  and  merchandise 
,roughout  the  United  States,  and 

themselves  no  Uuties  of  any  kind 
fferent  porte  and  counties  within 

ieg  of  measures,  all  of  a  marked 
the  constitution.  As  early  as  the 
to  the  States  to  vest  in  the  United 


ON    INTEUNAL    IMPROVEMENTS. 


858 


states  a  power  to  levy  a  duty  of  five  per  cent,  on  all  goods  imported 
from  foreign  countries  into  the  United  States  for  the  term  of  fifteen 
years.  In  1783  this  recommendation,  with  alterations  as  to  the  kind 
of  duties  and  an  extension  of  this  term  to  twenty-live  years,  was  re- 
peated and  more  earnestly  urged.  In  178-1:  it  was  recoq^iiiended  to  the 
States  to  authorize  Congress  to  prohibit,  under  certain  modifications, 
the  importation  of  goods  from  foreign  powers  into  the  United  Slutesi 
for  fiilecn  years.  In  1785  the  consideration  of  the  subject  was  re- 
Huined,  and  a  proposition  presented  in  a  new  form,  with  an  address  to 
the  States  explaininjr  fully  the  principles  on  which  a  grant  of  the 
power  to  regulate  trade  was  deemed  indiiipensable.  In  178G  a  meet- 
ing took  place  at  Annapolis  of  delegates  from  several  of  the  States  on 
till*  subject,  and  on  their  report  the  convention  was  formed  at  Phila- 
delphia the  ensuing  year  from  all  the  States,  to  whose  deliberations 
wc  are  indebted  for  the  present  constitution. 

"  In  none  of  these  measures  was  the  subject  of  internal  improve- 
ment mentioned  or  even  glanced  at.  Those  of  1734,  5,  G,  and  7,  lead- 
ing step  by  step  to  the  adoption  of  the  constitution,  had  in  view  only 
the  obtaining  of  a  power  to  enable  Congress  to  regulate  trade  with 
foreign  powers.  It  is  manifest  that  the  regulation  of  trade  with  the 
several  States  was  altogether  a  secondary  object,  suggested  by  and 
adopted  in  connection  with  the  other.  If  the  power  necessary  to  this 
system  of  improvement  is  iiicluded  under  cither  branch  of  this  grant, 
I  should  suppose  that  it  was  the  first  rather  than  the  second.  The 
pretens:  in  to  it,  however,  under  that  branch  has  never  been  set  up.  In 
Kupport  of  the  claim  under  the  second  no  reason  has  been  assigned 
which  appears  to  have  the  least  weight." 

Such  is  a  brief  history  of  the  origin,  progress,  and  consequences  of 
a  system  which  for  more  than  thirty  years  after  the  adoption  of  the 
constitution  was  unknown.  The  greatest  embarrassment  upon  the 
subject  consists  in  the  departi\re  which  has  taken  place  from  the  early 
construction  of  the  constitution  and  the  precedents  which  are  found  in 
the  legislation  of  Congress  in  later  years.  President  Jackson,  in  his 
veto  of  the  Wabash  River  bill,  declares-  that  "  to  inherent  embarrass- 
ments have  been  added  others,  from  the  course  of  our  legislation  con- 
cerning it."  In  his  vetoes  on  the  Maysville  Road  bill,  the  Rockvillo 
Road  bill,  the  Wabash  Rivtr  bill,  and  other  bills  of  like  character,  he  re- 
versed the  precedents  which  existed  prior  to  that  time  on  the  subject 
of  internal  improvements.  When  our  experience,  observation,  and  re- 
flection have  convinced  us  that  a  legislative  precedent  is  either  unwise 
or  unconstitutional,  it  should  not  be  followed. 

No  express  grant  of  this  power  is  found  in  the  constitution.  Its  ad- 
vocates have  differed  among  themselves  as  to  the  source  from  which  it 


8M 


BFECIAL    MESSAGE 


In  nlution  to  the  regulation  ot  com.        ,  ^^  ,^^^ 

in  ,l,e  constitution  is,  "  Congress  sh.  ^^^J  j^^^^„,  „„d  ^itU  tho 
Ir-e  ^vith  foreign  nation.  '^"^^^^^[^.  not  mean  to  m«Uo 
In.linntril.o.."    Tl-t '' to  rcR.l.t    comm  ^  harbor,  wouW 

„  roiul  or  di.'  a  canal,  or  clcur  out  a  '"'";'     ^^    ,.  regulate"  acl- 
:er;o\:e  o^viou«  to  the  ^^^£^^1:1  :;,at  J^.     in  thi« 
,„iU  or  affirms  the  pre-ex.sn."    ^^^         ;^^^      ,„j   „f  course   the 
case  it  presupposes    he  "^^'^^'^J^L^h  which,  commerce  ,3  carr.ed 
„.oan.  hy  which,  and  l»  .•^""""^  ;'";  „=„,    ,,«ume9  control  over  that 
.,„.     U  confers  no  creative  P".""  •  '\  ""  J^  ^^Vough  other  agencies, 
.hieh  may  have  been  ^'-'If 'J -^^^^'/enter'prise  of  individuals 
such  as  State  legislation,  ""^   '  «  '^7^^,,^,  ,„  i„elude  the  provision  of 
If  ihe  definition  of  the  word      egulatc  ^^^  ^^^^  ^^^^,. 

,„eansto  carry  on  -'>-;"^-«J\    ,  ^  roads  but  also 

deepen  harbors,  clear  out  ^-"^^^^:X^o\e..  all  of  which  are  neces- 
to  build  ships,  railroad  cars.  '^-'  ,;;.,„„ j.  if  ihe  power  to  regu- 
,,ry  to  commerce.    There  is  no  ■'"''"'  f'  ^^  .^^ate  or  facilitate, 

1,1  can  be  legitimately  -o-;-;^ ^    J  ^CJ,;,,  „„a  canal.,  and  «ll 
Ihen  not  only  the  bays  and  ''»^     "  .    '  „,„„„.  the  several  States,  are 
.         the  means  of  transporting  •""^■'""'',';  ,:,"",,;,  ,„  regulate  commerce 
put  at  the  disposition  ol  *^'";'^;;'  ^j, ^,,  ,^,,    .ft,,  the  adoption  of  the  con- 
vas  construed  «"'^ '^.''"-^'■\'  ''   ,  ,^'X  ..resent  day,  by  prescribing 
stilution.'.nd  has  been  ^xere-sed  to  te  1  ^,^^  ^^^^^^^ 

general  rules  by  whieh  7^";'7--,;  ;"' '  .;,«„,„„  the  rights  of  citi7,ens 

Luions  it  has  been  regu  ,.od  by  '^''^'^r^^^^l'^,,,^  duties  and  re- 

and  subjects,  as  well  as  ^'^  ^^J^'^f  ^  :^,  a^,  passengers.     It  has 

BtriHions,  embracing  ^'^^f''';/  ""'^vacts^f  Congress  relating  to  tt,e 
Ueen  regulated  among  the  Mat^^s  by  acts  o^^^   ^.^^  ^^^   ^^^^^^^ 

coasting  trade,  and  t''^^"^^-'^^'",;^^^^^^^^^^^^     .y  iteam,  and  by  the  re- 
.  security  of  passengers  in  ve-1*  I -I  ^    ;,^/  j,  „,,  .een  regulated 

n.,val  of  all  restrictions  y;""    ',„,,,,  prescribing  the  manner 
,vilh  the  Indian  tribes  by  our  u.teKour  ^i^^^^  ^^  ^^.^  ^^^^^^   ^ 

,n  which  it  shall  be  earned  °"   .  ^^^^  .„„  ^f  the  constitution,   and 
power  was  exercised  soon  a,  er  t       adoptio  ^^  ^  ^^^^  ^^^^^^^^j 

Lis  continued  to  be  exercised  to  the  pesny^^^.^^  ^^  g,  „„ 
construction  be  adopted^  U  IS  imp    se^  or  0^^^  ^„j  j.„„,tioa 

a  limit  to  the  exercise  of  the  poveotu^rm^^^^^^^^^  power  and  juris- 

of.Congress.   ^';^^''^':;;^^^^  ^Wers  and  httle  streams,  but  canals, 
^::::^SS:^:e;  spedes  of  improvement  whtc.  caa 


,r  the  di9cu8»ion«  upon  this 
nw  now  -o  be  chiefly  rcl.e.1 
,,„ent  of  harbors  and  river.. 
.  the  language  of  the  grant 
vc  power  to  regulate  com- 
scvcrul  State.,  and  with  tho 

rcc"  does  not  mean  to  make 
ordcepen  a  harbor,  wouUl 
sanding.  To 'regulate  .ul- 
in.  to  be  regulated.  In  th'« 
,„rnerce,  and  of  course  the 
,h  which,  commerce  .scnrr.ed 

^ly  BHSumes  control  over  that 
■nee  through  other  agencies, 
,  and  enterprise  of  individuals. 
U  to  include  the  provision  of 
.  Con<Trc8S  not  only  pow.r  to 
lu  an^d  make  roads,  but  also 
.hi'cles.  all  of  which  are  neces- 
xround.     If  the  power  to  regu- 
:  power  to  create  or  faohlato 
the  roads  and  canal.,  and  uU 
„,„.,ng  the  several  States,  are. 
is  vower  to  regulate  commerce 
ly  after  the  adoption  of  the  con- 
Ihe  present  day,  by  prescribing 
Id  be  conducted.     With  foreign 
■s,  defining  the  rights  of  citi/.ons 

n,rress  imposing  duties  and  re - 

:aV«.  -^"'i  p-'^««"s^"-  I' ';;"' 

cts  of  Congress  relating  to  tlie 
,yed  therein,  and  for  the  better 
,Llled  by  s'team,  and  by  the  rc- 
il  trade.     It  has  been  regulated 
irse  laws,  prescribing  the  manner 
,s  each  branch  of  this  grant   ol 
adoption  of  the  constitution,   and 
.resent  day.     L' a  more  extended 
l,le  for  the  human  mind  to  fix  on 
,ther  thin  the  will  and  discretion 
rt,.x  of  national  power  and  juris- 
.Wcrs  and  little  streams,  but  canals. 

ecies  of  improvement  which  caa 


ON    INTERNAL    IMPROVEMENTS, 


355 


facilitate  or  create  trade  and  intercourse  "  with  foreign  nations,  among 
the  several  States,  and  with  the  Indian  tribes." 

Should  any  great  object  of  improvement  exist  in  our  widely-extended 
country,  which  cannot  be  effected  by  means  of  tonnage  duties,  levied 
by  the  States,  with  the  concurrence  of  Congress,  it  is  safer  and  wiser 
to  apply  to  the  States,  in  the  mode  prescribed  by  the  constitution,  for  an 
amendment  of  that  instrument,  whereby  the  powers  of  the  Genera 
Government  may  be  enlarged,  with  such  limitations  and  restrictions  as 
experience  has  shown  to  be  proper,  than  to  assume  and  exercise  a 
power  which  has  not  been  granted,  or  which  may  be  regarded  as 
doubtful  in  the  opinion  of  a  large  portion  of  our  constituents.  This 
course  has  been  recommended  successively  by  Presidents  Jefferson, 
Madison,  Monroe,  and  Jackson,  and  I  fully  concur  with  them  in  opin- 
ion. If  an  enlargement  of  power  should  be  deemed  proper,  il  will  un- 
questionably be  granted  by  the  States ;  if  otherwise,  it  will  be  with- 
held ;  and,  in  either  case,  their  decision  should  be  final.  In  the  mean 
time,  I  deem  it  proper  to  add  that  the  investigation  of  this  subject  has 
impressed  me  more  strongly  than  ever  with  the  solemn  conviction  that 
the  usefiilness  and  permanency  of  this  Govemmcnt,  and  the  happiness 
of  the  millions  over  whom  it  spreads  its  protection,  will  be  best  pro- 
moted by  carefully  abstaining  from  the  exercise  of  all  powers  not 
clearly  granted  by  the  constitution. 


SECOND   ANNUAL   MESSAGE, 

DECEMBER  8th,  1816. 


of  congratulation  that  there  has  been  ^CJl^Z.oJy  ^<^^o\.r'^- 
«hen  all  iheele.nentsof  nat.anal  1''^"'^';"'^ ';."„,  '^'"u.ted  our  coun- 
Since  your  la.t  session,  no  "'"''•'^'"S/  '''>'^"  'T „",'  ^^s  crowned  the. 
try;  general  good  health  ;;7  ^-^t^-.t  —es  U  ;:ceiv,ng  an 
toilol'thehusband.aan;  and  1'''''-^'  '''  "  ,^^  .^^^^  „,„  raimlly  en- 
an.ple  reward,  while  -l-''-;'''"'\*''-'""-''X!.rss  of  our  country  in 
,.r,in.  the  means  of  .oca^  hap,:....  -  ^  ;;-  „,  „,,  ,„Htonal 
her  career  of  «realn.:s..  ""' "'' ^^  '  7™,ii,„,  but  in  resources  and 

the  history  of  nations.  ,,,nefirence  of  our  free  in.stitutions  aro 

JZ^:::^^:^'^'-  — ••  -^ "-" '— 

tivis  to  patriotism.  ,      .     ,j^     rrraeious 

country  enjoys.  ..^f^^.tion  to  know  that  the  relations  of  the 


gr^sjfa^*-?^ 


SECOND    ANNUAI-    MKS3AGE. 


357 


MESSAGE. 


816. 


ise  of  liepresentcUives : 
f  the  people,  it  is  a  su>>jeol 
leriod  in  our  piiat  history, 
mvehecnsolully.levelopnl. 

jiition  h;i8  visile.l  our  coiui- 
l)Uiulanco  hii»  crowned  llio 
ts  branches  is  receiving  lui 
nd  the  iirts  are  rapidly  eii- 
le  proi^ress  of  our  country  in 
;  extension  ol'  our  tcrritori:il 
hition,  but  in  resources  and 
)eople,  is  without  example  in 

e  of  our  free  institutions  aro 
lontentment,  and  fresh  inoen- 

nits  are  clue  to  the  gracious 
dessings  which  our  beloveil 

low  that  the  relations  of  tin: 
■h  a  single  exception,  are  of 
iltached  to  the  policy  of  peace, 
government,  I  have  anxiously 
ip  and  commerce  with  every 
he  American  people  are  favor- 
.ional  harmony.  In  adhering 
iramount  duly  obviously  con- 
iterests  from  encroachment  or 
preach.    These  must  be  main- 


tained nt  any  hazard.  Thry  aihiiit  of  no  compromise  or  neglect,  and 
must  be  Hcrupulou.sly  and  coiiHlantly  guarded.  In  their  vigilant  vindi- 
cation, collirtion  and  coiillicl  with  foreign  pnwern  may  sometimes  become 
unavoidable.  Such  lias  lieen  our  scrupulous  adherence  to  the  dictates 
of  justice,  in  all  our  foreign  intercourse,  that,  though  steadily  and 
riipidly  advancing  in  prosperity  and  power,  we  have  given  no  just  cause 
of  complaint  to  any  nation,  and  have  enjoyed  the  blessings  of  peace 
for  more  than  thirty  years.  From  a  policy  so  sacred  to  humanity,  and 
so  salutary  in  its  effects  upon  our  political  system,  we  should  never 
be  Induced  voluntarily  to  depart. 

The  existing  war  witli  Mexico  wos  ncitlier  desired  nor  provoked  by 
(he  United  States.  On  the  contrary,  all  honorable  means  were  resorted 
to  to  avert  it.  After  y*ars  of  endurance  of  aggravated  and  unredressed 
wrongs  on  our  part,  Mexiito,  in  violation  of  solemn  treaty  stipulations, 
and  of  every  principle  of  ju.'flice  recognized  by  civilized  nations,  com- 
menced hostilities;  and  lliiis,  by  her  own  act,  forced  the  war  upon  us. 
Long  before  the  advance  of  our  army  to  the  left  bank  of  the  Kio  Grande, 
we  had  ample  cause  of  war  iiiTiiinst  Mexico;  anil  had  the  United  States 
re.sorted  to  this  extieinily.  we  might  have  appealed  to  the  whole  civilized 
world  for  llie  justice  of  our  cause. 

I  deem  it  to  be  uiy  duty  to  present  to  you  on  the  present  occasion,  a 
condensed  review  of  the  injuries  we  hud  sustained,  of  the  causes  which 
led  to  tlic  war,  and  of  its  progress  since  its  coinmencement.  This  is 
rendered  the  more  iicces..i!iry  because  of  tlie  mis;ipprehensions  which 
have  to  some  extent  prevailed,  as  to  itsori_'in  and  true  character.  The 
war  has  heen  representeil  as  unjust  and  unnecessary,  and  as  one  of 
ai'gression  on  our  part  upon  a  weak  an  I  injured  enemy.  Such  errone- 
ous views,  though  entertained  by  hut  few  have  been  widely  and  ex- 
tensively circulated,  not  only  at  home,  but  have  been  spread  throughout 
Mexico  and  the  whole  worl.l.  A  more  effectual  means  could  not  have 
been  devised  to  encourage  the  enemy  and  protract  the  war'  than  to 
advocate  and  adhere  to  their  cause,  and  thus  give  them  ''aid  and 
comlbrt." 

It  is  a  source  of  national  pride;  and  exultation,  that  the  great  body  of 
our  peopli>  have  thrown  no  such  ob.stacles  in  the  way  of  the  government 
in  prosecuting  the  war  suecissfuily,  but  have  shown  themselves  to  he 
eminently  ])alriotic,  and  ready  to  vindicate  their  country's  honor  and 
inti'rest  at  any  sacrifice.  The  alacrity  and  promptness  with  which  our 
volunleer  tbrces  rushed  lo  the  field  on  their  country's  call,  prove  not 
only  tlieir  patriotism,  but  lluir  deep  convi.'tion  that  our  cause  is  just. 

The  wrongs  which  we  have  suffered  trom  M'^xico  almost  ever  since 
she  became  an  indipendent  power,  and  the  patient  endurance  with 
whicli  we  have  borne  them,  are  without  a  parallel  in  the  history  of 


gUQ  SECOND    ANNl'AL    MK5HACM:. 

.o,1ern  cWUi.e.l  nation.    ^J- ^J^;^.  ll  in....e,  .h^.-'-t 
.v,.r  .ni«ht  h..ve  been  -^ff'Jj  ^,^,,,.,  t„.  ,,.r,,.tr,au.n  ... 

.i4-r  republic.  .  ;„,i,.npn(lpnrc  which  tlie  Uinti'i' 

Soarc'ly  ha.l  Mexico  nchiove.l    -    '-'^l^^;";  ::,„„,,  ,vl>ea  «he  co,n- 

SuaoH  were  the  r.«t  among  ll.e  nation     o'-kn  .^  ^^^^^  ^^^^^^  ^.„^.,^ 

,„ence.l  .he  BVBten,  of  insult  «";\;;P  ^2:„  ,,,.,  .ere,  i,n,riHone.l, 
pursued.     Our  citizens  engaaecl  •"  1'  «""   ^  „.  ,„„„,y  w.i. 

E  vessels  sei.e.l,  an.l  our  ""«'-"'  .^'a^^^  ,':,;.  „u.r..h..nt  ve..  U 
.vanled,the  lawless  se./.ure  -r;\ZT>^Z^  if  to  '—l''-''  "'": 
„,..,  their  cargoes  ^-^ '^  "'"'^^  '^'^'on  .he  owners,  oa,.luin«.  ..n,l 
,,uri>oses,  it  became  necessary  to  ""P  7^.  V„  m,.x„„  in  rapi-i  s,u- 
|.„.l,  it  was  .lone.  Rulers  sup.r.e.1  ruK,  ^^^^^  ^__  _^^.  ^,^^^^^.,,^,„„ 
..,..sion,buts..ll  there  was  no  ^  -  '  ;,^.  ^  „;„,,„,  ,,elnn,n.ion«  on 
,,,.,.  Government  of  the  ^^^J^^  J^^^J  U  the  perpetration  o.  • 
,,,,,„„■  of  its  c.t./.ens  but  f'll'J'         ,,,  :^j,x:e,.  in  the  n.oU  sol,  nu, 

,„.w  outrages.  Prouusesot  -''---;'.;  ,„„,  ,..,o„,.  of  the  D-parl- 
Umns  were  postpone,!  or  eva.ll^neMi^^         _^^_^__^^^^_^  j^^^^,,^,^^   „.,„ 

,„ent  of  State  conta.n  cone  u  o  ^^.  ^^_^  ^.  .,,^„^^  „,  ^exteo, 
nrrpetrnlcl  upon  the  propertj  an  1  p  r  i,„,rposition  ot  our 
l..,l  „,  .anton  in-uh  to  o^  —     .J'^;;,  „,.„  ,.ie., ier  eir- 

r::r::sr : ro..u^^^^^^^^^  ,.., ,,. .... 
j;;::;:rnXritr^-r^^^^^^^^^^^^ 

i,ed  nations  in  their  mtercourse  >^^  '  J"^  ,,;,   ,s:n,  wa.  e„M- 

Luy,  commerce,  an.l  "-S"''-;  ,J  "^    !,.„'  proved  to  he  v.i.. 
,,uded  between  two  "P"*;'"'^ '/•"'.„"  „    ^l.  ..roporty  of  our  eif/.ens, 
.         The  course  of  seizure  and  -""^  ^^  tits  to 'our"  Hag.  pursued  Uy 
the  violation  of  the.r  Tysons,  and  tUt  ^  ^.^^  ^^_^_^  _^  ,,„, 

Mexico  previous  to  tl>at  Ume,  were  ^''J^   -'J  j,,,^,,  „„.,  amies  .U 

iiod.  although  the  ^'^'^.:\:^J^l.n.U.^^^n.^  or  mist.K. 
Ue  respective  parties,  that  .t  «  ™f^;;2%„,,,,,,,,  „f  that  treaty  -ur 
then..     In  less  than  seven  years  at   .   tec  .^^^  ^_.  ^.^^^.^  ,,.,,^ 

.grievances  had  become  so  >"'°'"»l'^;  .^J^^V      n  hil  JL-ssagc  to  Con- 
y^ackson,,heyshou,d  nolo.jr  be      J^^  ^^^  ^^^^  consideration  o. 

•  gress  in  February,  IbJ',  be  f^  f  „i,,  ^f  ,i,„e  since  sou.e  ot  the 
l-hat  body,  and  deelare.l  U,at  J'-  '^^^  ^„j  „„,,,iUng  applioufo., 
injuries  had  been  commuted,  the  rci>cai 


flS<AGK. 

,  ,.,  i„.l^-.vp  timt,  if  tl..**'-. 
,,  llrst  instil..'-'',  ll>''  l-f'";"' 
,,«,..  I...w>v.r,  permUlcil  t'> 
,„n»..cil  tlir  i.nrp-tralu.n  ol 
il.utP.  to  w.aU.ics.  i.rul  ...ar- 
,„«  ll.c  ..n.«l.riiv4  "!■  '"•"•i"'^- 
ve  frien.lly  rol.itioiH  will,  a 

.pomle.K.-,  wl.ich  tli«  L-.iit'nl 
.'cknovvl.dijc,  wlien  «l.u  o.m- 
n  vvl.i.'U  Hlio  huH  cv^r  mn.o 
I  comn.orc.-,  were,  iinpriHoiuMl, 
in  her,M.r.«.  If  money  w.va 
,li„„  of  our  nurrlmnt  vessel* 

Hn.l  if  l'>  n«'»">l''"'''  ""-'^ 
,n  llic  owners,  rnptuinx.  ivn.l 
uler-t  in  M'^xieo  in  nipi.l  mic- 
,„  thix  svstein  of  depre'lation. 
ude  repe..l.Ml  reclaniationH  on 
Hwero.l  l-v  llie  perpetration  ol 

l,v  Mixieointliei.ioUsoleini. 
ilc«  „n.\re.-or,lsoillienepart- 
ow  of  nuMiernus  lawless  nclrf 
ons  of  our  elti/.ens  by  Mexu-o, 
11,.'  'I'lie  interposition  ot  our 
„  \rn.l  auain  invoked  un.ler  e,r- 
isresiard.  . 

would  ceaso,   and  that   I^Icxico 

rc>'ulute   the  eonduct  ol  eivil- 

eucli  other  after  the  treaty  >h 
ho5thof  April,  IHin.wa.  eon- 
s  hope  soon   proved  to  be  vam. 

of  the  property  of  our  eit./.ens, 
,  insults  to  our  llaS-  pursued  by 
rroly  suspended  for  cv«n  a  brie  1 

defines  the  rights  and  dulu^s  m 
,ible  to  n.isnnderstan.l  or  nusUiKe 
the  com-lusion  of  that  tr..,ly  ...■.;■ 

that,  in  tlie  opinion  of  ITcsid.  ..t 
;dured.  In  hi«  5I'««a>,'«  ",'  '  "",: 
cd  them  to  the  consideration  m 
len-Hh  of  time  since  sou.e  ot  the 
euted  and  unavailing  apphcatio-i. 


SKCOND    ANNTAI.    MKrf3Ar.E. 


359 


for  redress,  the,  wanton  ehiinirter  of  some  of  the  outriisfs  Upon  the  prop- 
irly  anil  ])ersons  o''  our  eiti/.ens,  upon  tin;  ollleers  und  fliij;  of  the 
1  iiiti'd  States  in(h  peiident  of  recrnl  insiihs  to  this  (jovi'mment  and 
IKopJi!  by  the  late  extraordinary  Mexican  Minister,  woulil  justify,  in  the 
I  yes  of  till  nations,  iiniuediatu  war."  In  h  spirit  of  kindness  und  (br- 
bi  irane<',  however,  he  reeominended  reprisals  as  a  milder  inoile  of 
V dress.  Hi:  declared  that  w,ir  sliould  not  be  used  as  a  remedy  "  bv 
ju-l  and  ,';eni  nais  ipilions,  eonridiiiir  in  lh<ir  iitrenirth,  for  injuries  com- 
Miilled,  if  it  can  lie  honorably  avoided;"  and  added,  'It  has  oceurred 
to  me  til, it,  eoiisidtrin;;  the  |)resi:nt  nnliiirrassiul  comlition  of  that  coun- 
try we  should  act  with  both  wisdom  and  moderation,  by  giving  to 
IMexico  one  more  opportunity  to  atone  for  the  past,  before  wo  take, 
redress  into  our  own  hands.  To  avoid  all  inisoonccption  on  the  part 
of  .Atexico  ,'\s  wc  II  as  to  protect  our  own  national  character  from 
rrproach,  Ihisopporlunity  shouM  lie  fxivcn,  with  the  avowed  dcsiifn  and 
full  prepaialinii  to  talu;  immediate  satisfaction,  if  it  should  not  lie  ob- 
liined  on  a  ri  petition  of  the  iliinand  for  it.  To  this  enil,  I  recoaiaw  nd 
that  an  a{-t  lie  passed  authorizinj;  reprisals,  and  the  use  of  thi;  naval 
force  of  ihe  I'liited  .'-iiates.  by  the  ICxeculivc,  against  Mexico,  to  enlbree 
lliem  in  the  event  of  u  reliisal  by  the  Mexican  (tovernment  to  coiik  to 
an  amicable  adjustment  of  the  matters  in  controversy  between  us,  U|ioii 
.iiiother  demand  thereof  made  Irom  on  hoard  one  of  our  vessels  of  war 
upon  the  coast  of  iAIexico." 

<,^)miiiiltei  s  of  both  Houses  of  Conijress,  to  which  this  Messaije  of 
ibis  I're:ddi  Mt  was  referred,  fully  sustained  his  views  of  the  character 
of  the  wrongs  which  wc  had  sud'ercd  from  Mexico  and  recommended  ili,it 
aiiiilh'r  demand  for  ri'dress  should  he  made  before  authorizing  v,ar  or 
ri  ]irisals.  The  Committee  on  Foreign  Relations  of  the  .Senate,  in  their 
report,  say  :  '  After  suofe  a  demand,  should  prompt  justice  be  refused 
by  the  Mexican  Government,  we  may  appeal  to  nil  nations,  not  only 
for  the  equity  and  moderation  with  which  we  shall  have  acted  toward 
a  .sister  republic,  but  for  the  necessity  which  will  then  compel  us  to 
seek  redress  for\)ur  wrongs,  cither  by  actual  war  or  by  reprisals.  The 
Kuliject  will  then  be  presented  before  Congress,  at  i.ic  commencement 
tif  the  next  session,  in  a  clear  and  distinct  form;  and  the  Committeo 
cannot  doubt  but  that  such  measures  will  be  immediately  adopted  an 
may  be  necessary  to  vindicate  the  honor  of  the  country,  and  insure 
ample  reparation  to  our  injured  citizens." 

The  Committee  on  Foreign  Affairs  of  the  House  of  Representatives 
made  a  similar  recommendation.  In  their  report,  they  say  that  "they 
fully  concur  with  the  President,  that  ample  cause  exists  for  taking 
redress  into  our  own  hands,  and  believe  that  we  should  be  justified  in 
the  opinion  of  other  nations  for  taking  such  a  step.    But  they  are  will- 


360 


SECOND    ANNITAI,    MHSSAOE. 


i„B  to  try  the  experhnent  of  another  .l..m«n.l,  nm.lc  in  >;---;;;;'';- 
,;,nn,  u,».n  th-  jUKlire  of  the  Mexican  (iov.rn..a...t,  I.U..r.,  any 

Ihir  i.r.H'.c.hnnH  mv  u.lopU.I."  ,„.il,  v..l  to  have  eni-tcJ 

No.linWenoeufo,.nionu,,on      e..,,c.i^^.^^ 

in  ('on^reM  lU  that  time;  the  l.xiuuiv.  ,. 

conourn.1;  ana  yet  .ueh  ha.  heen  ""V"^:;:;:;:;;     '  '  Z,, U.^,!. 
,,.rvn-H.exvithMexi.o/tuathevvron.Ho,u       hvvuun^^^^^     ^^^ 

un.l   which  .rave  ri-e  to  theHC  Holnun  pror hn^H   not  only   r 

...IrcHed'o  thi.  aay,  but  na,htional  eanK..  "     -'f '"''■   "' 
„,„.rav«.ea  eharaeter,  hav,  ever  ninee  been  -cnn.uh  t  .  «• 

ss-;rrr~",.  ;::^£:£— ^^^^ 

,..o«l  «,„.eay  ana  enuiiabh.  .1,  ternnna  ,on  ol  ''  ""  ,  ^^J^.^...^.-.  UuU 
BerioJiy  en«a«ea  the  attention  o.  j";'  '  ;;  ^  ^.^^'^^^  Cr  It.  con- 
the  ••  Mexican  (lovcrna.en,  wouhl  a.lo,  '     /'^  „,,,.  „i,„,  i,„. 

duct,  the  .aainest  pnncples  "M'"''''^''^'  /",;',,  ..^i..^-  „„a.hat 
l,o«ea  hv  internut,onal  h.w,  and  the  reb,M..UH  ''''';"'^;;^  ,,.,,,,  ,,;„  ,,„ 
!:  whatever  reUKon  ana  ju«lice  n.uy  -hctate  '-I'-'f^'  ';.;,,   „,-  „,, 

.,„,..,..      The   assurance   wa«  turtl.er  «'--  '^^  ,      ^.^^^  ^  ^^.res. 

Mexican  Ciovertnnent  npon  each  cause  o,  ;-'7  P  '"^   ^      J,    ...^  „,■  ,Uo 

haa  beenaemanaea,  ehouia  be.  .■..nm.una.t,  d  to  th    (  ovenuac. 

Unitea  States  by  the  Mexican  Mnnster  at  ^^'^^^^^      ^^,,^^^^  ,„, 

SithSt=.r.s::trr 

Lnt,  ana  son.  of  the  causes  ot  "r-  ^^J"!  'J^a  «ati.a.c- 
„u.Ht  offensive  character  aam.tlea  »'''''"''';''.•,,  'J,,;  ...^.if.c  cotn- 
tory  rephe.,  it  «  only  with.n  u   ew  aa)     1  '     ^  'f^  ^\,,,       ,  ,,,3 

.nunicntion  in  answer  to  our  '-'  ;.'^''.'7■;^''i  ^i",.:,  ...t'one  of 
been  received  from  the  Mex.can  M.n.  er       '''-';        „^„^  ^,, 

our  pubhc  complaints  has  «''^'«'^^';''"";  ;*"  ,  .^""..iderea,  and 
one  of  the  cases  of  PJ^^f  ;JS.^  ;':  lu  those  fortaally  pre- 


1 


'"f^^S 


"tflAOR. 


BECONn    ANNUA),    MKSSAGE. 


301 


I,  mmle  in  llio  mo»t  solemn 
KTiiiiHiit,  l)elori!  liny  I'ur- 

is  l„  li(Mil  It)  have  cuiNtcil 
i„l  I,.;;wliilivc  .Uparlimnta 
MMraiic.i,  uiul  ilf"ir<'  U>  (irr- 
wlii<lnvellii'ii  i-omiilaiiiid, 
niliiij^rt.  mil  only  reiiiainnl 
iiK.:i»'i>f  coiiiiilaint,   of  im 
uceiiiiiuli»li">K- 
nH8«rni.'(T  wiiK  ikHpatclio.l 
-ss;  andontlic  twcnlii  tli  of 
plyofllui  M.xican  (i.'vern- 
:  slimi!  niDiith.  luitl  rimlaiiiH 
Ml  xii'an  (iovcrniiii'nt  •  nut 
II,, 1,1c  adjUHlim'nt,  wliirli  \» 
•ccn  till!  two  jTiivcrniiicnlK;" 
iii.-U   ni:iy  contribute  t»  Hie 
ftlic  Buliji'i'ts  wliicli  httvo  HO 
iiirrii'an  (iovernuu'iil ;"  that 
rt  111,'  only  |;uiiii'«  lor  its  con- 
t   ili.i  sacrpil  obliiitaliona  iin- 
LiH  ruilhollrtati.iH;"  an.ltluit 
r.wpiolins;  earli  caw  will  i'O 
.11,  lliat  llie  ilccision   of  the 
complaint,  for  which  rcdrusu 
itMl  to  th<!(iovcrnaitnlofthc 
VVanhington. 

ourikuuina  for  rrilreBS,  were 
,.r.   Mexico   oblainc.l  furliieT 
ual  M('S'«age  '"  Coii^jrcs-*.  of 
uhhi.Ufjh  the  larger  niunber'^ 
of  them   anarnvateil  canes  of 
s  be  fore  the  Mexican  Guyern- 
,1  coaiplaint,  ami  those  of  the 
iinc.lialc,  simple,  nnJ  mitisfac- 
8  pa^l  that  any  specific  com- 
,1.1,  made  live  n.onlhs  ago,  has 
;r;"  and  that  ''for  not  one  of 
eeii  jiiven  or  offered  ;  that  but 
leen  favorably  considered,  and 
out  of  all  those  formally  pre- 
yet  been  decided  upon  by  the 


Mexii'an  noverniui'til  ''  Prn»ii|pnt  Van  Iluren,  briievinij  that  it  would 
lie  vain  til  make  any  further  atti'iiijit  to  obtain  riMJrem,  by  tlie  ordinary 
means  within  the  power  of  the  Kxcoutive  comiiiunicaled  this  opinion 
to  ( '.ini;re«^  in  tile  ,Me.isai»e  referred  to,  in  which  he  xaid  :  '  On  n  c, ire- 
ful and  deliberate  examination  of  the  eontenl!*  "  (of  the  eorre«ponileiwe 
Willi  tile  Mexican  (iovernmetit,)  "  nnd  oonxiilerin^' the  dpiril  niaiiifesird 
I'V  till'  Mi'xican  (lovernment,  it  has  become  mv  painful  diiiv  to  ri  turn 
till-  subject  a<  it  now  stands,  to  ('oni;ross.  to  whom  it  belon^'s  to  deciibt 
ii|ioii  the  time,  the  mode,  and  the  measure  of  redress."  Hud  the  Tnited 
.•-•uiles  lit  that  time  nilopted  compulsory  inemures  and  taken  redress 
into  their  own  hands,  all  our  ditricultirs  with  M<xii-o  would  pndialily 
have  been  lonw  hinoe  ftdjusted,  and  the  existliii,'  War  have  bi^en 
averted.  Ma'.,'iiaiiimity  nnd  moderation  on  our  part  only  had  the  eirect 
ti)  com|)lic,ife  these  dillieullies,  and  render  an  ami(  (tbie  settiiinent  of 
till  m  iiiori'  embarr.issinir.  'rhalsiieli  iiieasuns  of  redress  under  similar 
proVDcalions  comaiilteil  by  any  ot  the  powerful  nations  of  I'.urope, 
vvHiild  have  berii  promptly  resorted  1 1  by  the  United  .States  cannot  be 
ili>ulit((l.  TIk'  nali<nial  honor,  onil  the  pres'rvation  of  fhc!  n,ilional 
cliaracter  throui;hout  the  worlil,  as  wi  II  as  our  own  self-ri'speet.  and 
the  protection  due  to  our  own  citizens,  would  have  rendereil  siieli  a 
resort  indispensable.  The  history  of  no  civilized  nation  in  modirn 
tiaies  has  presented  within  so  brief  n  period  so  many  wanton  attacks 
iipoii  the  honor  of  its  (lai;,  and  ujion  the  priiperty  and  prr-iims  of  it.s 
<'ili7.ens.  as  had  ill  that  time  been  borne  by  the  United  ,St;ites  from  the 
IMexieiin  .luthoritjes  and  people.  Hut  Mexico  was  a  sister  r(  public,  on 
tile  North  American  continent,  occupyimj  u  territory  contiiruous  to  our 
own,-and  was  in  a  feelile  and  distracted  condition ;  and  these  Con- 
siileraliona,  it  is  presumed,  induced  Congress  to  ibrbear  still  lonirer. 

Instend  of  takins;  redress  into  our  own  hands,  a  m\v  ncj^'oliation  was 
eiitireil  upon,  with  fair  promises  on  the  part  of  Mexico,  but  with  the 
reiil  puriiose,  as  the  event  has  proved,  of  indefinitely  jiostponin;;  the 
reparation  which  we  demanded,  and  which  was  so  justly  due.  Thi.s 
Jieiioliation,  aller  more  than  a  year's  delay,  resulted  in  the  Convention 
of  the  eleventh  of  April,  \S'M.  '■  for  the  ailjustment  of  claims  of  citizens 
iif  the  United  .States  of  America  upon  the  Government  of  the  Mexican 
Republic."  The  joint  board  of  Commissioners  created  by  this  Conven- 
tion, to  examine  and  decide  uiwn  these  claims,  was  not  orijnnizeil  until 
the  month  of  Ausjust,  1810,  nnd  under  the  terms  of  the  Convention  they 
were  to  terminate  their  duties  within  eijrhtcen  months  from  that  time. 
Four  of  the  eighteen  months  were  consumed  in  preliminary  discussion* 
on  frivolous  and  dilatory  points  raised  by  the  Mexican  CommissionerB ; 
and  it  W08  not  until  the  month  of  December,  1810,  that  they  com- 
luenced  the  examination  of  the  claims  of  our  citizens  upon  Mexico. 

IG 


302 


BBCOND    ANNI-'At.    MEaHAtJr. 


nuincrou.  .i.ul  c...n|.lue.U.l  .•««.«.  •'  ,,„i„„  u„.ii.i...H..,l  of 

U,c  turn.  ofth.  «•'''""'■--'''"'■*»•''•■;       "^'f,,      I,.   ,,y  ihc  bounl,  un,l 

„, want of..u.e.  Ti.o '"";";;;' ^^::i:':.:;^ i„ ....> o.- .1.. 

„i„c  .lollurK  «n.l  tl.irty...«ht  "";,,;;'*:  ,::;„r.';ui>u'  WI.U.U  luul 
umpire,  «>•-/''«  ;'"'"'";^^;""/.jrAl   can  Co,M.u.«io.^        un,l  luul 

not  teun  nllowtil   Dy  w    ni*-*'^"'  u„„,i,,.,l   mul  twtntv  n< vcn 

hundred  and  twcnty-H.-IU  thousand  •'«»'"',;„ ^,^,,  J,,..,,„« 
dollar,  and  ci«hty-ci«ht  c.nt.  "l-";;  "'■,;„::',  joint  i^J- 
that  hi.  authority  had  ceuncd  w.th  the  "»  "  'Tf  A  ncric  m  .•iti/.ns, 
mi«i..n.  BcHidcH  th...c  eluin..,  there  were  '^'^^"[^^^^^^^^^^^  j,,„„,,„a 
amounting  to  three  .niilion  '''-Jjl^r  ^^^  ''^.S  hudbc-n 
eight  hundred  and  thirty-««ven  dollar,  and  hve  etm^  ^  .  ^^ 

.ubnulted  to  the  board,  and  upon  wh.ch  they  had 

nine  dollars  ami  Mxiy  1 1|,"<-  i      .,„.  ,i,,v,,  ,iue  bv  Moxieo,  about 

claimants,  was  u  liquidated  and  '-"^  "^  .  ^'^1 'cwu'  -"-'  '"  '"'^ 
wbieh  there  could  be  ^'^^^^:^::i:'t:^a.r  ^.ii^^'^^^r^^ 
aceordin«  to  the  terms  "';-;;",;;';;,;,„„  oovernment  asked  for  a 

inconvenient  to  make  the  l"'y;"'="V,'''  ''^^;"'^,;"'^,  i^h  Mexico  has  so 

long  ''''^'''•^''•'"'"'•^i^^'t'oSKly  concluded  between  the  two 
A  second  convention  was   <^^''°'''l^^ll  ,,,       ^ich,  upon  its  fac.^, 

?"r^"'rt^"rhirne:«rtn;  -nrr'erdtto  ferine  aeeom- 

deelares  that     '''"  ".^^^l^^,,,,  „f  ^his  Convention,  all  the  interest 
.nodation  of  Mexico.         y^^eterm         ^^^^  .^  ^^^^^  ^^  ^^^  ^,^. 

due  on  the  awards  wnicn    uuu  ^^ 

ants  under  the  <=- T '°?k°' f  A^rir  8      and  ■  !e  plcipal  of  the 
paid  to  them  on  the  thirtieth  of  April,  'S^' ""J,''    '"  J    .J^^  ,„  „  ,,o 

Lid  awards,  and  the  '"^-f^^'n^^t;  LriX"    Notwith- 

paid  in  five  years,  in  equa  '"«'*''"<>"'' "j*^*"  j^e  request  of  Mexico, 
Lnding  this  new  conventionwasener^^^^^^^^^^ 

and  for  the  P^'P--//;;^  ^  J^  l'„ The  thirtieth  of  April.  1843,  and 
have  only  received  the  "  "^^'j'""  °"^„  ^  the  payment  of  the  sum 
three  of  the  twenty  .nstalment.  ™"f  '  ^^/.^  „„  ciUz.n.  a» 
thu.  liquidated,  and  confcedly  du»  by  Mexico  to  our 


ur. 

nil  iliM'iile  ujion  thcM 
Ih  of  Ki:l)riiiiry,  IMJ, 
y  cliiiiiin  uruliup""*'!'  i>r 
^,mI  l«y  tlic  lioiinl,  "ii'l 
ilccitiB  ill  I'll""  "'"  '''"■ 
^riciiii    (.'tuimiitxio'""'''' 
no  liunilri'il  mvl  limty- 
K  |KMiiiinii  l»l'»rc  ill" 
mnl  cliiiiiw  wliifli  l""' 
Joiiiinisiiioiiprn,  ami  liinl 
ipr»,  HUiountiiii;  to  "i"'' 
lirid   niul  iw.rily  n( veil 
(\iil  not  i)oci(ii',  ulli«ins 
ution  of  tlic  joint  i-oiii- 
;rs  of  Aincrionn  filizi^ns, 
mil  tliirly-Hix  thoununJ 
c  cents,  which  hmi  been 
I  hail  not  time,  to  liecide 

I  one  hundreJ  nnd  thirly- 
ul  been  awariieil  lo  the 
ibt  duo  by  Moxieo,  about 
I  HJie  WU8  bound  to  puy 
jon  ufter  the  finiil  iiwiirdu 

Government  iwkcd  for  a 

ultc(;ing  that  it  would  bo 
J  stipulated.  In  the-B[.irit 
die,  which  Mexico  has  «o 
implied  with  her  rcriucst. 
eluded  between  the  two 
m,  which,  upon  its  faci^, 
cred  into  for  the  ncconi- 
:onvention,  all  the  interest 
lo  in  favor  of  the  claiiii- 

of  April,  18;i9,  was  to  bo 
,  and  "  the  principal  of  the 
on,"  Wtt8  stipulated  to  "  bo 
r  three  months."  Notwith- 
ito  at  the  request  of  Mexico, 
ibarrassment,  the  claimants 
thirtieth  of  April,  1843,  and 
I  the  payment  of  the  sum 

Mexico  to  our  citizens  n» 


■SeONO    ANM.'AIi    MKHHAOE. 


•.Mil 


Indomnily  for  neknowiedm,!  nets  of  oiitrai;e  ami  wron^'  wim  h.ciimI  by 
Ire  iity,  the  olill|;alii>ii.'<  i,r  wliieli  are  •■\rr  IkM  »,uTed  by  all  ju»t  nationii, 
ytl  .Mexico lui.)  viiiLiti.dtliiH«i)|riiin  eni{in;eiiifiii  l,y  luilmu  mnl  refimin;; 
lo  nmku  the  piiyinent.  'riie  two  iii.taliiieiiln  ilii.)  in  April  and  July, 
IHll,  under  the  (M.culiur  cireuiii»lanei  h  eoniieeli  d  with  llinn  liuve  Im  c  n 
ii.sKUliied  by  lliu  L'liitrd  .S|,,ti  h  niiil  .Iwliari.r,  ,1  |„  i|„.  el^ujiHuils,  liut 
tlity  am  mill  due  liy  Mexje...  liut  lliM  lA  mil  idl  of  wliiili  ne  liuve  jukt 
eauiie  iif  c(.ii]|ihiiiit.  'I'd  pjovidn  u  reriiedy  (or  die  elaiiiMiiilM  »vIi..hi) 
ca.xeM  were  nut  d(  eided  by  the  ji.inl  eoiiiiiilHxioii  iiii.lei'  tli.!  eoiiveiiliim 
of  April  tlie  ej.M.iitli,  l'.::,l,  it  w.ii  .ipr.MHly  Bii|,iilated  by  tliu  mxIIi 
arliele  i.itjie  ( ■otiveiiliiin  olllie  ihirlieth  of  Jimuury,  IHJ;)  thnt  "a  new 
con\i  iilion  hIiiiII  bu  iiilen  d  into  lor  tlie  h.iiI,  nienl  of  nil  el^iiiiiH  .if  ilie 
Hoveriimtnt  and  citi/,ei)rt  of  the  Coiled  .stuluH  iiuMinnt  tlm  r.  |.uldl.'  ol" 
.Mexico,  which  W.  re  nol  lin:,lly  >l,ei.|.-d  by  llir  l.il-  e,.ini.ii«,si,.ii.  wliiell 
nil  t  ill  the  cily  of  WiLshiiiL'tnii  and  of  all  ebiiiiii  of  tlic  ;^i>vi  rnuieiil  and 
cili/.i'iis  of  Alexico  ajriiiiisi  il,,.  i;i,:li.,|  .SinlrH," 

111  eoiilbraiily  wiilf  lliis  .<li|Mil/,li,iii  ii  lliinl  ( 'oiuenlion  was  coiielu,li d 
ami  i.i;;iie(l  al  llie  city  of  .Mexico  on  the  twtiilietii  of  .Voveaiber,  IM!!, 
by  the  iileMipolenliaiieM  of  ihe  two  (Joveniinentu,  by  which  provision 
was  made  for  uHeertaiiiiiii,' and  payinjithene  cliiiiuH.  In  January,  Ihll, 
thin  coiiverilioii  waH  ratilied  by  thi  .Senate  ..f  tlie  Iliiiled  .Slati  x  with 
two  amendinenlH,  wliieli  were  luaiiir  xlly  r.';inoiiiild.i  in  their  character. 
I  poll  u  referciicii  of  the  aiiieiiiliiienlM  propoMnl  to  the  (ioveriilueiit  of 
.Mexio,  the  auiilii  cvaHioiiM,  diliicultie^,  ami  ilej.iys  were  inlerponed, 
wliieli  have  ho  Imi;,'  iiiarktd  the  pi.Iiey  of  lliat  ( li)Verniiuiit  toward  tlie, 
Unili  d  .Slates.  U  Ikih  lu.t  even  yet  decided  whether  it  wmild  or  would 
not  accede  lo  them,  altllou^rli  ll,,;  »iil,j,.ct  has  been  repeatedly  prcHHcd 
upon  ilH  consideration. 

Mexico  has  thus  violated  u  Kieoml  lime  lli(.  faith  of  treaties,  by 
lliilinir  or  rulusinn  to  carry  into  cireet  the  cixlh  arlide  of  the  Conven- 
tion of  January,  1813. 

.Such  is  the  histjry  of  the  \vrom,'s  which  we  linve  sullcred  and 
lialieiitly  endured  irom  .Mexico,  tlirouirli  a  loiiir  Hcries  of  years.  So  far 
In.m  alfordinj;  reanonalile  satisfaction  lor  the  injuries  und  insults  wo 
had  borne,  a  f,'reut  aggravation  of  them  consists  in  the  tact  that  while 
tlie  United  States,  anxious  to  preserve  u  good  understandinjr  with 
iMexico,  have  been  constantly,  but  vainly,  emidoyed  in  seeking  redreHS 
lor  past  wrongs,  new  outrages  were  constantly  occurring,  which  have 
continued  to  increase  our  causes  of  complaint,  and  to  swell  the  amount 
of  our  demands.  While  the  citizens  of  the  United  .States  were  con- 
ducting a  lawful  commerce  with  Mexico,  umler  the  guaranty  of  a 
treaty  of-  amity,  commerce,  and  navigation,"  many  of  them  have  suf- 
fered all  the  injuries  which  would  have  resulted  from  open  war.     This 


m 


ggiBJi:i-5j;";Jiaa,ji''H^sti!gs 


364 


BECOND    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


treaty,  instea.l  of  affording  protection   to  our  ct.zens,  has  l>o.n  the 
means  ofinviling  tiiem  into  tlie  ports  of  Mexico,  that  h>ey  m.jiht  l,<-.  ns 
thev  have  been  in  numerous  instances,  plunilered  of  the>r  properly  ami 
deprived  of  their  personal  lil.erty,  if  they  dared  insist  on  th.nr  r,sht« 
Had  the  unlawful  seizures  of  American  property,  and  the  violation  o. 
the  personal  liberty  of  our  citizens,  to  say  nothing  of  the  insults  to  ou 
lla.r  vvhich  have  occurred  in  the  ports  of  Mexico,  taken  place  on  the  1  ngl. 
sea"s  they  would  themselves  long  since  have  const.luted  a  state  of  nctuiu 
war  betv^een  the  two  countries.     In  so  long  sullering  Mexico  to  violate 
her  most  solemn  treaty  obligationn,  plun.ler  our  citizens  of  their  prop- 
erly, and  imprison  their  persons  without  alTordinj  them  any  redress, 
we  have  failed  to  perform  one  of  .he  first  and  highest  duties  which 
every  covernment  owes  to  its  citizens;  and  the  consequence   has  been, 
that  many  of  them  have  been  reduced  from  a  stale  ol  affluence    o 
bankruptcy.     The  proud  nau.e  of  American  citizen,  which  ought  to 
protect  all" who  bear  it  froai  insult  uml  injury  throughout  the  world 
hasaflorded  no  such  protection  .0  our  citizens  %  Mexico.     VNe  had 
ample  cause  of  war  asrainst  Mexico  long  before  the  breaking  out  o. 
hostilities.     Hut  even  then  we   forbore  to  take  redress  ..nto  our  own 
hands,  until  Mexico  herself  became  the  aggressor,  by  invading  our  soil 
in  hostile  array,  and  shedding  the  blood  of  our  citizens. 

Such  are  the  grave  causes  of  complaint  on  the  part  of  the  I  n.tcd 
Slates  against  Mexico-causes  which  existed  long  before  the  annexa- 
tion of  Texas  to  the  American  Union;  and  yet,  animate.l  by  the   ove 
of  peace,  and  a  magnanimous  moderation,  we  did  not  adopt  those 
measures  of  redress  which,  under  such  circumstances,  are  the  justified 
resort  of  iniured  nations.  ...         .     . 

The  annexation  of  Texas  to  the  United  States  con.t.tu  ed  no  just 
cause  of  offence  to  Mexico.  The  pretext  that  it  did  so  is  whol  y  incmisi.t- 
ent,  and  irreconcilable  with  well-authenticated  facts  connected  with  the 
revolution  by  which  Texas  became  independent  of  Mexico.  That  th,s 
may  be  the  more  manifest,  it  may  be  proper  to  advert  to  the  causes  and 
to  the  history  of  the  principal  ever.ts  of  that  revolution. 

Texas  constituted  a  portion  of  the  ancient  -province  of  Louisiana, 
ceded  to  the  United  States  by  France  in  the  year  18W,  In  the  year 
'  1819  the  United  States,  by  the  Florida  treaty,  ceded  to  Spain  all  tiat 
part  of  Louisiana  within  the  present  limits  of  Texas ;  and  Mexico,  by 
Uie  revolution  which  separated  her  from  Spam  and  rendered  her  an 
independent  nation,  succeeded  to  the  rights  of  the  mother  country  over 
this  territory.  In  the  year  1824,  Mexico  established  a  federal  consti- 
tution, under  which  the  Mexican  republic  was  composed  of  a  number 
'  of  sovereign  States,  confederated  together  in  a  federal  union  similar  to 
our  own      Each  of  these  States  had  ite  own  executive,  legislature,  and 


3SAGE. 


SECOND    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


365 


ur  citizens,  has  been  the 
ico.  that  they  initrht  bo.  ns 
lercd  of  their  properly  unci 
ired  insist  on  thtnr  riijhts. 
jerty,  and  the  violiition  of 
)tl\in2  of  the  insults  to  ou' 
CO,  ti'ken  place  on  the  hisjb 
;onstiluteil  ii  state  of  nctuiv 
sunering  Mexico  to  violate 
our  citizens  of  their  prop- 
rorilinj  them  nny  redress, 
nnd  liighest  duties  which 
[he  consequence   hns  been, 
cm  a  state  of  affluence  to 
in  citizen,  which  ought  to 
jury  throughout  the  world, 
izensTn  Mexico.     We  hud 
before  the  breakinir  out  of 
take  redress  into  our  own 
rressor,  by  invading  our  soil 
our  citizens. 

t  on  the  part  of  the  United 
,ed  long  before  the  iinncXii- 
{  yet,  aniinalcil  by  the  love 
)n,  we  did  not  adopt  those 
:unislanccs,  are  the  justified 

d  States  constituted  no  just 
\titdid  BO  is  wholly  inconsist- 
ited  facts  connectetl  with  the 
ndent  of  Mexico.  That  this 
r  to  advert  to  the  causes  and 
It  revolution. 

licnt  'province  of  Louisiana, 
the  year  1803.  In  the  year 
eaty,  ceded  to  Spain  all  that 
ts  of  Texas;  and  Mexico,  by 
Spain,  and  rendered  her  an 
its  of  the  mother  country  over 
established  a  federal  consti- 
E  was  composed  of  a  number 
:  in  a  federal  union  similar  to 
wn  executive,  legislature,  and 


judiciary,  and,  for  all  except  federal  purposes,  was  as  independent  of 
the  general  governnitiit,  and  that  of  the  other  states,  as  is  Pennsyl- 
vania or  Virginia  under  our  constitution.  Texas  and  Coacuila  united 
and  formed  one  of  these  Mexican  States.  The  state  constitution  which 
they  adopted, -and  which  was  approved  by  the  Mexican  confederacy, 
asserted  that  they  were  "  free  and  independent  of  the  other  Mexican 
United  States,  and  of  every  other  power  and  dominion  whatsoever;" 
and  proclaimed  the  great  principle  of  human  liberty,  that  •  the  sover- 
eignty of  the  State  resides  originally  and  essentially  in  the  general  mass 
of  the  individuals  who  compose  it."  To  the  gnvernmenl  under  this 
constitution,  as  well  as  to  that  under  the  federal  constitution,  the  people 
of  Texas  owed  allegiance. 

Emigrants  from  foreign  countries,  including  the  United  States,  were 
invited  by  the  colonization  laws  of  the  Stale  and  of  the  federal  gov- 
ernment, to  settle  in  Texas.  Advantageous  terms  were  offered  to 
induce  them  to  leave  their  own  Country  und  become  Mexican  citizens. 
This  invitation  was  accepted  by  nuiny  of  our  citizens,  in  the  full  faith 
that  in  their  new  lioiiis  they  would  be  governed  by  laws  enacted  by 
representatives  elected  by  themselves,  and  that  their  lives,  liberty,  and 
projierty  would  be  protected  by  constitutional  guMrantees  similar  to 
those  which  existed  in  the  republic  they  had  lefl.  Under  a  govern- 
ment thus  organized,  they  continued  until  the  year  183.5,  when  a  mili- 
tary revolution  broke  out  in  the  city  of  Mexico,  which  entirely  sub- 
verted the  federal  and  state  constitutions,  and  placed  u  militury  dic- 
tator at  the- head  of  the  government. 

By  a  sweeping  decree  of  a  Congress  subservient  to  the  will  of  the 
U..  .ator,  the  several  state  constitutions  were  abolished,  and  the  States 
themselves  converted  into  mere  departments  of  the  Central  Government. 
The  people  of  Texas  were  unwilling  to  submit  to  this  usurpation. 
Resistance  to  such  tyranny  became  a  high  duty.  Texas  was  fully  ab- 
solved from  all  allegiance  to  the  Central  Governmeet  of  Mexico  from 
the  moment  that  government  had  abolished  her  state  constitution,  and 
in  its  place  substituted  an  arbitrary  and  despotic  Central  Government. 

Such  were  the  principal  causes  of  the  Texan  revolution.  The  people 
of  Texas  at  once  determined  upon  resistance,  and  llew  to  arms.  lu 
the  midst  of  these  important  and  exciting  events,  however,  they  did  not 
omit  to  place  their  liberties  upon  a  secure  and  permanent  foundation. 
They  elected  members  to  a  convention,  who,  in  the  month  of  Miirch, 
163(i,  issued  a  formal  declaration  that  their  "  political  connection  with 
the  Mexican  nation  has  Ibrcvtr  ended,  and  that  the  people  of  Texns  do 
now  constitute  a  phk.k,  sovkiikkin,  and  iniikphndknt  hkpubi.ic,  und 
are  fully  invested  with  all  the  rights  and  attributes  which  properly  belong 
to  independent  nations."    I'hey  also  adopted  for  their  government  a 


W.tS^Mrl->1^^kl,r"iai^Vlk'*V_'Mi-''    l!iS)U!'J 


3(56  SECOND    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 

Ai,„„»  flip  Rame  time,  Santa  Anna, 

Uberal  republican  --'•'«»"!"^   ^^^^^^^tX  numerous  army,  for 
thenthcdictatorof  Mexico  mvade    Texas  ^^^^    ^^^^,^^^^  ^^  ^.^ 

the  vurpoBC  of  sub.hnng  the  V^f''^^'lJZ.iy.i\r.ioiAfrii,  .830, 
arbitrary  ami  despotic  government      On  the  twcny  J  ^^^^.^^^^ 

hewa«me.bytheTexanc.t.ensoId,ers,andonth  t     y.^^_  ^^^ 

hythem  the  memorable  J-'-^;],^,  „"/,r;"„:;„hera  engaged  on  the 
J^irildS^C-^  -t^r^  n-  brilliant  aeh.evement. 

Santa  Anna  himself  was  --if^.^lCa'acUnowledged,  by  a  treaty 

In  the  month  of  May,  IH^b,  »ania  _^         ^^^    ^^^^^^ 

.vith  the  Texan  authorities,  mtlvc  ■"«  J"'  '."^^^'^J,,'   ,,;,  t,„e  he  was 

^    .,„d  perfect  independence  of  the  ^^J^Ue  had  .ailed  to  re- 

UK-n  a  prisoner  of  war,  but  UtJ^^^^^^^^  ,^^^^  „,  „„,,„,„ 

,  .„nquer  Texas,  and  ^-^  '"^t-'^J^^'T^^^,^  „f  ^.j^  treaty  he  obta>ne,l 
,,,d  notl'«'^"^f^''"^''-""VholiuLvere  suspended,  and  the  ar,ny 
SS=l^:a  TeSs^r  l^ommand  i^turned  in  pursuance 

ofthi.-arran,ement^«n^^^^^^^^^^  ^^ght  until  the 

From  the  day  that  the  "RV"'  _,,  possessed  the  power  to  reconqm  r 
^  ,.-ent  hour,  M*ico  has  ne  r  po~ '  ^  P^^^  ^^  ^,,  u„,,., 
Vexas.  In  the  language  of  »''.«  f;^'^;'''^^,;^  „„,,„  aate  of  the 
States,  in  a  despatch  to  our  ™'"«  ^"^J'^^'^,^  ,„„,i,,er,  and  may 
,„h,h  of  July,  .Hie.  l^^^^^;::^^^:::^^^^^  an  times  since  18.5, 
HliU  choose  to  consider  Texas  as  >"»      -  ^f^,  ^^^  has  been 

,„a  „.  .till  -"t".-ng .;  «  ^  'X7:X^^^^  Prom  the  time  of 

ol,liged  to  take  a  '"y.  "l"^"*"' '^f.^a,;  ,„  the  present  moment,  Texas 
,„c  battle  of  San  Jaemto,  m  Apnl  183b,  to  t.>    p        .^^^    ^^^^^^  ^^ 

h„s  exhibited  the  «-")''/'''""''    "^h  "Ibility  of  government.    Prac- 
Mexico  herself,  and  w.th  -!-'«  "^^^^^^  political  sovereignty 

,,,lly  free  -V"'^':foMhe  tr  I  nXti.e  foTt  finding  rest  within 
^        the  principal  pewers  of  the  woria  herself  refraining  for 

>  ,;:„  territory  fo.  s.x  or  --"  J  ''2^;;  .^^  « "stabUsh  her  own  author- 
all  that  period  from  any  further  «_  ^"^P^  .^^^  t„  fipj  Mr.  de  Boca- 
ityovfer  that  territory,  .t  cannot  but  be  Ban.r.sng^  ..complaining 

,J.ra"  (the  secretary  o    P,?'^"2"^JrUnUed  States  or  its  Govern- 
•        that  for  that  -^ole  period  c.Uzen^ of   he  Un^         ^^^  ^  ,  ,^ 

,„ent,  have  been  favoring  the  lebels  of  ^^^  ^^^^^^  ^^^^^.^^  ^^ 

■     ^ith  vessels,  '^'""•"""'""•^"'troonLnt Iv  pro.ecuted  by  Mexico,  and 
,hc  province  of  T«as  had  been  conBun.yp  ^^  ^^^  ^^^^^ 

her  success  prevented  by  the^enfluencesft^^^  ^^^^  ^^^  ^^^^^ 

despatch  the  «-f  ^^J^^Sp  ndent  sovereignty,  as  much 
^;l^«r,rSS:nd%o.Jrcewithciti.ensof  a  govern- 


GE. 

me  time,  Santa  Anna, 
li  a  numerous  army,  tof 
rrinii  obedience  to  his 
cnty-first  of  April,  iS'.iO, 
1  that  (lay  was  achieved 
o,  hy  which  they  con- 
umbers  cngas;ed  on  the 
e  brilliant  achievement. 

knowledged,  by  a  treaty 
I  form,  "  the  full,  entire, 
!xa9."  It  is  true  he  was 
hat  he  had  tailed  to  re- 
fciit;  that  his  authority 
•  this  treaty  he  obtained 
uspended,  and  the  army 
1  returned  in  pursuance 

,to  was  fought  until  the 
the  power  to  reconqin  r 
of  State   of  the  United 
exico,  under  date  of  the 
isen  to  consider,  and  miiy 
1  at  all  times  since  18:t5, 
;  but  the  world  has  been 
natter.     Prom  the  time  of 
the  present  moment,  Texas 
national  independence  as 
lility  of  government.    Prnc- 
as  a  political  sovereignty 
itile  foot  finding  rest  within 
xico  herself  refvaining  for 
B-establish  her  own  author- 
rising  to  find  Mr.  de  Boca- 
of  Mexico)  "  complainuig 
nited  States,  or  its  Govern- 
exas,   and  supplying  them 
the  war  for  the  reduction  of 
prosecuted  by  Mexico,  and 
rom  abroad."    In  the  same 
Sat  "  since  1837  the  United 
ndent  sovereignty,  as  much 
e  with  citizens  of  a  govern- 


8ECOND    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


307 


ment  nt  war  with  Mexico  cannot,  on  that  account,  be  ro-rarded  as  an 
intercourse  by  whirli  assistance  and  succor   are   frivcn  °to   Mexican 
rebels.     The  whole  cu.Tent  of  Mr.  de   Bocanegra's  remarks   runs  in 
the   same  direction,  as  if  the  independence  of  Texas  liad   not    been 
acknowledged.      It   hus   been  acknowledged -it  was  acknowlechr,.,] 
1.1   IW/,  against  the  remonstrance  and  protest  of  Mexico ;  and  im.st 
of  the    acts,   of  any   importance,   of  which,   Mr.  de   Bocanegra  co.,- 
plnins,  flow  necessarily  from  that  recognition.     He  speaks  of  Texas  a^ 
still  being  •  an  integral  part  of  the  territory  of  the  Mexican  reni.hlic' 
but  he  .-annot  hut  understand  that  the  United  Stales  do  not  so  r.^rard 
>l.     The  real  complaint  of  Mexico,  therefore,  is,  in  substance.  neiUicr 
more  nor  less  than  a  complaint  against  the  recognition  of  Texan  inde- 
pemlence.      It  may  be  thought  rather  late  to  repeat  that  complaint, 
and  not  quite  just  to  confine  it  to  the  United  States,  to  the  exemption 
ol  England,  France,  and  Belgium,  unless  the  United   States    havin.r 
heen  the  hrst  to  acknowledge  the  independence  of  Mexico  lierself  are 
to  be  blamed  for  setting  an  example   lor  the  recognition  of  that  of 
.■x,.s.       And  he  adde.l.  that -the  eon.stitution,  public  treaties    and 
the  laws  oblige  the  President  to  regar.l  Texas  as  an  independent  Stale, 
and  Its   territory  as  no  part  of  the  territdry  of  Mexico."     Texas  had 
oeen   an  independent  State,  with  an  .'rgnnize.l  government,  defyin.r 
the  power  of  Mexico  to  overthrow  or  reconquer  liVr,  for  more  than'  ten 
years  before  Mexico  commenced  the  present  war  a.rainst  the  Unitr.l 
States.     Texas  had  given  such  evidence  to  the  world'  of  lier  ability  to 
maintain  her  separate  existence  as  an  in.lep.ndent  nation,  that  she 
had  been  lora.ally  recognized  as  such,  not  only  by  the  United  States 
hut  by  several  of  the  principal  powers  of  Europe.     These  powers  had 
entered   into  treaties  of  amity,  cuinmerce,  and   navigation  with   her 
Ihey  had  received  an.l  accredited   her  ministers  and  other  diplomatic 
agenis  at  their  respective  courts,  and  they  had  commissioned  minister, 
"od  diplomatic  agents  on  ll-.eir  part  to  the  government  of  Texas     If 
Me.xi.;o,  notwithstanding  all  this,  and  her  utter  inability  to  subdue  or 
n^conquer  Texas,  still  stubbornly  refused  to  recognize  her  as  an  inde- 
puident  nation,  she  was  none  the  less  so  on  that  account.     Mexico 
herself  ha.l  been  recognized  as  nn  independent  nation  by  the  United 
Slates,  and   by  other  powers,  many  years  bt;ore  Spain,  of  which   be- 
loiv,  her  revolution,  slw  had  been  a  colony,  would  agree  to  recoTniz.    '' 
lur  as  such,  and  yet  Mexico  was  at  that  time,  in  the  estimation  of  the 
civilized  world,  and  in   fact,  none  the  less   an  independent  power  be^- 
cause  Spam  kIiII  elaim,  d  her  as  a  colony.     If  Spain   had  continued      ' 
until  the  present  period  t,.  assert  that  Mexico  was  one  of  her  colonies     -■ 
in  rebellion  against  her.  this  would  not  have  made  her  so,  or  chan<red 
the  (act  01  her  ind,  peiuleni  existence.     Texas,  at  the  period  of  her  an-. 


■.jaBaife.,.j<w4t<jJVjM 


368  SECOND    ANNUAL   MESSAGE. 

negation  to  the  United  StateB,  bore  the  same  relation  to  Mexico  ti^at 
Mexico  had  borne  to  Spain  for  .nany  year»  before  Spa.r  acknowledged 
her  independence,  with  thiB  important  differenee-that  betore    he  an- 
nexation of  Texas  to  the  United  Slates  was  consummated.  Mex.coher 
self  by  a  formal  act  of  her  government,  had  -^nowledged    he    m   - 
pendenee  of  Texas  as  a  nation.     It  is  true  th  .t  .,>  the  act  ol  r.   ogm 
.   ion  she  prescribed  a  con.lition,  which  she  had  no  power  or  authonty 
t'impose' that  Texas  should  not  annex  herself  to  -y  otl.r  pow     . 
but  this  could  not  detract  in  any  de.reo  fro.n  the  reeognU  on  which 
Mexico  then  made  of  her  actual  independence.     Upon  th»  ?«'";'_;»- 
mentof  facts,  it  is  absurd  for  Mexico  to  allege  as  a  ^ '««' »"' ^ 
mencng  hostilities  against  the  United  States  that  Texas  «  sfU  a  part 

°^iu[tTerare  those  who,  conceding  all  this  to  be  true,  assume  the 
ground  that  the  true  western  boundary  of  Texas  m  the  Nueces,  instead 
of  the  Rio  Grande;  and  that,  therefore,  in  marchmg  our  army  to    he 
east  bank  of  the  latter  river,  we  passed  the  Texan  hne,  and  .nvad  d 
the  territory  of  Mexico.     A  simple  statement  ot  fact.s,  known  to  ex  st 
will  conclusively  relu.e  such  an  assun.ption.     Texas   as  ceded  to  the 
United  Slates  bv  France  in -IHO:),  has  been  always  claimed  "^.<;'''e"J- 
ing  we«t  to  the  kio  Grande,  or  Rio  Bravo.     Th.s  fact  .s  established  by 
the   authority  of  our  m..st  eminent  slatcsmen  at  a  period   when  the 
question  was  as  well  if  not  belter  understood  llian   it  is  at  present. 
During  Mr.  .hllVrson's  adndnislration   Messrs.  Monroe  and  P.nckney, 
who  had  been  sent  on  a  special  mission   to  Madrid,  charged,  among 
other  things,  with  the  a.ljustment  of  boundary  between  the  two  coun- 
tries ina  nole  addressed  to  the  Spanish  Minister  ol  Foreign  A ffars, 
und;r  date   of  ihe   twenty-eighth  of  January,   1«05,  assert  that  the 
boundaries  of  Louisiana,  as  cede.l  to  the   United   States  by  Prance, 
"  are  the  river  Perdido  on  the  east,  and  the  river  Bravo  on  the  west ; 
and  they  add,  that  "  the  facts  and  principles  which  justily  th.s  conclu- 
sion are  so  satisfactory  to  our  Government  as  to  convince  it  that  the 
•        Uni.ed  States  have  not  a  better  right  to  the  islan.l  ot  New  Orleans, 
under  the  cession  referred  to  than  they  have  to  the  whole  district  oi 
territiiry  which  is  above  described." 

Down  to  the  conclusion  of  the  Florida  treaty  in  February,  1819,  oy 
wl.ieli  this  territory  was  ceded  to  Spain,  the  United  Stales  assertec 
and  maintained  their  lerrl.orial  rishls  to  this  extent  In  the  month  ol 
Juno  181H,  during  Mr.  Monroe's  adniinislrati.m  inlormation  having 
been  received  that  a  nua.b.r  of  forei,.n  adv<  ntur.rs  had  landed  at  Gal- 
veston, with  the  avowed  purpose  of  lora.in.r  a  s.ttl-mcnt  in  that  vicinity 
a  special  messenger  was  despatched  by  the  Gov.rnmenl  ot  the  United 
States  with  instructions  from  the  Secretary  of  State  to  warn  them  to 


GE. 

Elation  to  Mexico  that 
re  Spnin  ncknowieilgcd 
;— tlmt,  before  tlie  un- 
suminated.  Mexico  lier- 
dviiowlcdgcii  the  inile- 
t  ill  tlie  act  of  rooojrni- 
no  power  or  authority 
If  to  any  otUnt  power: 
the  rccognilion  which 
Upon  this  plain  state- 
e  ns  a  pretext  for  cora- 
luit  Texas  is  still  a  part 

to  be  true,  assume  the 
Its  is  the  Nueces,  instead 
rching  our  army  to  the 
exun  line,  and  invaded 
if  facts,  known  to  exist, 

Texas,  as  ceded  to  the 
ways  daiaied  as  extend- 
his  fact  is  established  by 
1  at  a  pi'riod  when  the 
,d  than  it  is  at  present. 
s.  Monroe  and  Pinckney, 

Madrid,  cbar^red.  among 
f  between  the  two  coun- 
nister  of  Foreign  Affairs, 
rv,  1W03,  assert  that  the 
Jnited  States  by  France, 
vcr  Bravo  on  the  west ;" 
which  justify  this  conclu- 
s  to  convince  it  that  the 
;  island  of  New  Orleans, 

to  the  whole  district  of 

ily  ill  February,  1819,  oy 
e  United  Stales  assertei' 
cxlent  In  the  month  of 
itidii  information  having 
iturcrs  had  landed  at  Gal- 
sHll-mnnt  in  that  vicinity, 
jovirnmenl  of  the  United 
of  State  to  warn  them  to 


SECOND    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


369 


desist,  should  they  be  found  there  "or  any  other  place  north  of  the 
Uio  Bravo,  and  within  the  territory  claimed  by  the  United  States."    He 
was  instructed,  should  they  be  found  in  the  country  north  of  that  river, 
to  make  known  to  them  •■  the  surprise  with  which  the  President  has 
sen  possession  thus  taken,  without  authority  from  the  United  States 
01  a  i-luco  within  their  territorial  limits,  and  upo..  which  no  lawful 
settlement  can  b.  made  without  their  sanction."     He  was  instructed 
to  call  upon  them  to  ■'  avow  under  what  national  authority  they  pro- 
.1.BS  to  act,"  and  to  give  them  due  warning  •'tliat  the  place  is  within 
tlie  United  Slates,  who  will  suQer  no  permanent  settlement  to  be  made 
there,  under  any  authority  other  than  their  own."     As  late  as  the 
eighth  of  July,  1843,  the  Secretary  of  State  of  the  United  States,  in  a 
note  addressed  to  our  minister  in  Mexico,  maintains  that,  by  the  Florida 
treaty  of  181!>,  the  territory  as  far  west  as  the  Rio  Grande  was  con- 
firmed to  Spain.     In  that  note  he  states  that,  "  by  the  treaty  of  the 
twenty-second  of  February,  1819,  between  the  United  States  and 
Spmn,  the  Sabine  was  adopted  as  the  hne  of  boundary  between  the 
two  powers,.    Up  to  that  period,  no  considerable  colonization  had  been 
cflected  in  Texas;  but  the  territory  between  the  Sabine  and  the  Kio 
Grande  being  confirmed  to  Spain  bytlie  treaty,  applications  were  made 
to  Ihut  power  for  grants  of  land,  and  such  grants,  or  permissions  of 
settlement,  were  in  fact  made  by  the  Spanish  authorities  in  favor  of 
citizens  of  (l,e  Unit/-*!  Stales  proposing  to  emigrate  to  Texas  in  numer- 
ous famll.cs,  hp''t<cc  ihe  declaration  of  independence  by  Mexico." 

The  Texus  which  was  ceded  to  Spain  by  the  Florida  treaty  of  1819 
embraced  all  the  country  now  claimed  by  the  State  of  Texas  between 
the  Nueces  and  the  Rio,(;rande.  The  republic  of  Texas  always 
claimed  this  river  as  her  western  boundary,  and  in  her  treaty  made 
with  Santa  Anna,  in  May,  1830,  he  recognized  it  as  such. 

liy  the  Constitution  which  Texas  adopted  in  March,  183G,  senatorial 
and  representative  districts  were  organized  extending  west  of  the 
Nueces..  The  Congress  of  Texas,  on  the  nineteenth  of  December,  183(;, 
passed  an  "  Act  to  define  the  tioundaiies  of  the  Republic  of  Texas,"  ;n 
which  they  declared  the  Rio  Grande  from  its  mouth  to  its  source  to  be 
their  boundary,  and  by  the  said  act  they  extended  their  ■  civil  and  political 
jurisdiction"  over  the  country  up  to  that  boundary.  During  a  period 
of  more  than  nine  years,  which  int(Tvened  between  the  adoption  of  her 
Constitution  and  her  annexation  as  one  of  the  States  of  our  Union, 
Texas  asserted  and  exercised  many  acts  of  sovereignty  and  jurisdiction 
over  the  territory  and  inhabitants  west  of  the  Nueces.  She  organized 
and  defined  the  limits  of  counties  extending  to  the  Rio  Grande'  She 
established  courts  of  justice,  and  extended  her  judicial  system  over  the 
territory.  She  established  a  custom-house,  and  collected  duties  and 
.     16* 


870 


SECOND    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


al«opoBt-omce«  and  post-roml.  in  it.     She  established  alan.  ofllcr 
ana  issla  numerous V^nts  for  land  witlun  it«  limits.      V  Senator  nn.l 
4re  en nuive  rcBidin;  in  it  were  elected  to  the  Consre-of  t  o  repu  . 
0  and  served  ns  sueh  l...fore  the  net  of  annexation  took  place.     In 
„1   the  Congress  and  Convention  of  T.-xas,  which  gave  the.r  a.sent 
t  rn.  ol- annexation  to  the  United  States,  proposed  by  our  C.n- 
tZ  were  representatives  rosidin,  west  of  the  Nueces  who  took  pa 
tn  the  Tct  of  annexation  itself.     This  was  the  Texas  wh.ch,  by  the   ac 
o"  our  Con-rress  of  the  twenty-ninth  ^f  December,  1815,  was  ndmU  ed 
a    on    o  the  States  of  our  Union.    That  the  Congress  of  the  Un.    d 
Sates  understood  the  State  of  Texas  -'>-\'h«y  a  mated  tn  o  t, 
Union  to  extend  beyond  the  Nueces  is  apparent  from  th^f"--  ■   ";\°^ 
the  thirty-first  day  of  December,  IH 15,  only  two  days  after  the  act  ot 
l.Lsion  thev  passed  a  law  "to  establish  a  collection  d.str.ctm  the 
S  rTf  T  xaV'  by  which  they  created  a  port  of  delivery  at  Corpus 
C  ,r   ti  Hi  uatei  west  of  .he  Nueces,  and  being  the  -»«  I-'"';\-  "  '' 
S     T  xa    custom-house,  under  the  laws  of  that  republic,     ad  be  n 
cutid   and  directed  that  a  surveyor  to  collect  the  revenue  should  b 
all  nted  for  that  port  bv  the  President,  by  and  with,  the  advice  an, 
appo  ned  lor  u      p  ^_^^  accordingly  nominated,  and 

::S^  .?  1^  «.  "-'  haJbeen  ever  since  in  the  perlbrmaiice 
of  I  is  uties  All  these  .Cs  of  the  repuulie  of  Texas,  and  oi  our  Con- 
:  :  X-lea  the  orders  tbr  the  advance  of  our  anny  to  '  « -^  j^^  j] 
The  Rio  Grande.  Subsequently,  Congress  passed  an  act  ',  -  '^^'-'-  - 
rerfiin  post  routes,"  extending  west  of  the  Nueces.  I  he  counln 
w  of  Tat  river  now  constitutes  a  part  of  one  of  the  Congression:,! 
li  riots  of  Texas,  and  is  represents  in  the  House  of  Representat  v  ;. 
Ttsena  tors  from  that  Stale  were  chosen  by  a  legislature  in  which 
J  nuy  west  of  that  river  was  represented.  In  view  of  »li  these  fa  N 
t  i  d  fficult  to  conceive  upon  what  grounds  it  can  be  niaintaine.l  tat, 
in  oc  upying  the  country  west  of  the  Nueces  with  our  army  wit. 

ew  sTly  to  its  security  and  defence,  we  invaded   the  tern  ory  o, 
Sco      But  it  would  live  been  still  more  ddhcult  to  justi.y  the    -x- 

u  iv^  w  LI  dutv  it  is  to  see  that  the  law  he  faithfully  executed.  , 

in  t  omTe  of  all  these  proceedings,  both  of  the  Congress  ot  Texas  and 

t.  United  States,  ho  h:ul  assumed  the  responsibility  of  yiel  ing  u, 

,.  territory  west  of  the  Nueces  to  Mexico,  or  of  relusmg  to  P^otec  and 

...end  this  territory  and  its  inhabitants,  including  Corpus  Christi.  as 

welTas  the  retnainder  of  Texas,   against  the   threatened  Mexican 

"' Bui°"lexico  herself  has  never  placed  the  war  which  she  has  waged 
unon  the  ground  that  our  army  occupied  the  intermediate  territory 
bSeen  the  Nueces  and  the  Rio  Grande.    Her  refuted  pretension,  that 


3E. 

ibliahcd  a  land  oflirP, 
iiiiits.  V  Senator  nnd 
Congress  of  tlio  repuli- 
[iilion  took  pluce.  In 
hich  gave  tlieir  assent 
proposed  by  our  ("oii- 
Nucoes,  who  took  part 
'XU8  which,  by  the  iu-l 
ler,  1815,  wns  admitted 
Congress  of  the  United 
they  admitted  into  the 
t  from  the  fact,  that  on 

0  days  after  the  act  of 
loUection  district  in  the 

of  delivery  at  Corpus 
the  same  point  at  which 
liat  republic,  had  been 

the  revenue  should  be. 
d  with  the  advice  and 
irdingly"  nominated,  and 
nee  in  the  performance 
Texas,  and  of  our  Con- 
army  to  the  east  bank  of 
m\  an  act  "establishini^ 
Nueces.  The  country 
me  of  the  Coni^ressional 
oiise  of  Representatives. 

1  legislature  in  which  thi' 
n  view  of  all  these  facts 
can  be  niaintaine<l  Ihiit, 

4  witli  our  army,  willi  a 
invade<l  the  territory  of 
iRcuU  to  justify  the  Kx- 
je  faithfully  executed,  if, 
e  Congress  of  Texas  and 
lonsibility  of  yielding  up 
of  refusing  to  protect  and 
luding  Corpus  Christi.  as 
Iho   threatened  Mexican 

n\r  which  she  has  waged 
he  intermeiliate  territory 
er  refuted  pretension,  that 


SECOND    ANNUAL    MESSAGE, 


371 


Texas  wan  not  an  independent  State,  but  a  rebellious  province,  was 

awl?       hTT""^  '"'  ""''    ""  ''^""''"'  ?"'?"*«  i"  commencing 
a  war  w.th  the  United  States  was  to  reconquer  Texas,  and  to  restore 
Mex.can  authority  over  the  whole  territory-not  to  the  Nueces  alone, 
iT^irl  ^"^""'J"  ""'''  °f  'he  proclaimed  menaces  of  Mexico  t, 
Ins  e  feet,  I  deemed  U  my  duty,  as  a  measure  of  precaution  and  defence 

l7r"'""."T"'  °'^'="Py  «  Pooi'ion  o"  our  frontier  as  a  militar; 

post,  from  which  our  troops  could  best  resist  and  repel  any  attempted 

invasion  which  Mexico  might  make.  i«cmptc.i 

Our  army  had  occupied  a  position  at  Corpus  Christi,  west  of  the 

iTuu  "^  "  ^"'  ^"«"'''  '^^^'  ^*"'°'"  «'"npl»int  from  any  quarter. 
Ha  1  the  Nueces  been  regarded  as  the  true  westeraWndary  of  Texas, 
that  boundary  had  been  passed  by  our  army  many  months  before  it  ad- 
vanced to  the  eastern  bank  of  the  Rio  Grande.     In  my  annual  Mes- 

boTl  ".r"""  ';  J.'"'""™"^  ^""S'*"'  "">'■  "P°"  ""=  invitation  of 

both  he  Congress  and  Convention  of  Texas,  I  had  deemed  it  proper 
to  order  a  strong  squadron  to  the  roast  of  Mexico,  and  to  concentrate 
on  efficient  military  force  on  the  western  frontier  of  Texas,  to  protect 
and  defend  the  inhabitants  against  the  menaced  invasion  of  Mexico 
In  that  Message  I  informal  Congress  that  the  moment  tlie  terms  of 
annexation  offered  by  the  United  States  were  accepted  by  Texas  the 
atter  became  so  far  a  part  of  our  own  country  as  to  make  it  our  duty 
to  afford  such  protection  and  defence;  and  that  for  that  purpose  our 
squadron  had  been  ordered  to  the  Gulf,  and  our  army  to  'take  a  posi- 
tion between  the  Nueces  and  the  Del  Norte,"  or  Rio  Grande,  and  "to 

7:is:::ToZ''  ''' ''"""  "-''^'^  ^•^'^'^  -'^'^  ^<=  -"-p-'  "y 

It  was  deemed  proper  to  issue  this  order,  because  soon  after  the 

TenlTh    r      "''  7  f  ""•  '''''  '"'  '"'''"^  "^'^  proclamation  con 

,hn.  h   .     ?r^"'""  "'^  """  ^'P"''"'''  *■•"  "'«  P"^P«»°  of  submitting  to 

hat  body  the  terms  ot  annexation  proposed   by  the  United  States, 

terri?o7''''"'"'"  °  "^""^^  """""  """'•'  <"" '"^^'Ung  the  Texan 

These  threats  became  more  imposing  as  it  became  more  apparent,  in 
the  progress  of  the  question,  that  the  people  of  Texas  would  decide  in 
favor  01  accepting  the  terms  of  annexation;  and,  finally,  they  had  as- 
sumed such  a  formidable  character,  as  induced  both  the  Congress  and 
Convention  of  Texas  to  request  that  a  military  force  should  b^e  sent  by 
Mie  United  States  into  her  territoiy,  for  the  purpose  of  protection  and 
<lt.fending  her  against  the  threatened  invasion.  It  vould  have  been  a 
vio  ation  of  good  faith  toward  the  people  of  Texas  to  have  refused  to 
IS  T  "'.  rf  **  'hey  desired  against  a  threatened  invasion,  to 
which  they  had  been  exposed  by  their  free  determination  to  aniiex 


'*««'«*!*!S»«»^i^j^-.a(B^j3sj555^_,, 


■  iPtmiii  JW" 


SECOND    ASNUAI.    MESSAOK. 


372 

,,,,,„. join. ,...!«.-.. or. "<-»!;'-  ,„  „,,„„„  ,„,„ 

oopi,  .  of  both  of  which  '"^'^''■"P"""^'''"^^'' ,',;„,  „,.  st-ilo      Th.so 

,1, .,  ^„, '--- -f  -  ,-;^,s:ir:r::a:;oh;My  <..,.. 

t„ino.l  of  a  .lifloront  r.suU  fro,n  «-"';' ^^^  ,,,":::  ««.-crs.f„l, 
Uonary  n-ovemenl  which  h.  wa«  P-  '  J^J^^^'^  ^^^  ,,;„,.,„  in 
a«  W..S  highly  ,.rol.uhc.      1  he  P-^  '   J'f.,,,,^  hostih.v  n^^.inst 

,,,  ,,.,.„,atoh  rofcrr,..!  to,  «'"  ";;;;  ^/J  „  ,,,ion  ..  treason  nn.l 
thcUnilod  St.t.H,  d.nou,....)  ">'•  [^^f  ",,"  j.,  ,,„t  ,,own  the  Gov- 
openiy  eulU^  upon  the  t.oo,-.  u ml  t  ^.|^,^^^^  _^_^^^  ^^_^^  ^^.  ^^ 

crnment  of  Herrcra  l.y  force.     Tl  c  re  co    ,  ^.^^^^_^^ 

the  United  States  were  openly  '"-'\""  ^;^„'  Hrd"  the  army  un.hr 
.ances  exis.n,,  w,.n  .t  ^  —  vlilT iJr  western  J.ier  of 
Ihe  conmiunil  ot  Gentrnl  l  ii)  lor  Grande. 

Texas,  .nd  occupy  a  positu.n  on  or  near  'h^^^-  ".™„„  ,,,,  i,een 
The  ar.:,a.hensions  "'"a  .-ontcmplate^  M  x  -n^  ^^^^.^^  ,^ 

.ince  fully  justified  by  the  even.  J^J^^,^^^^,,  ...anif.s.ed, 
,ush  into  hoslilit.eB  w.th    ho  Un  t  d  ^  'te«  -«  ^_^.^^^^  ^^  ^^^^^  .^,_^ 

from  the  whole  tenor  01  t' «  ""'"  "\  ' '' ^^'^^  filh  of  Mnrch,  181G. 

Affairs   to   our  Minister   hearmg   J"  «  '";;;;J„^^„a  n;.  Minister, 

Parcdes  had  then  revohition.zod  the   ^""""'^  which  had 

■        ler  referring  to  the  ^solution  for  the  anne   .  t.on  o^-^^^^  ^^^^ 

been  adopted  by  our  Congress  m  ^  ^-^^/^''/"^^  ,„  „otable  an 
...  a  fact  such  as  tins  ^Mo  '^^^l^'Z:^,  „,„,  Mexico,  for  her 

•Eirr-iriisri^atirofthisdec.^^^^^^ 


I  overture  maile  to  them 

dcred  to  nilvnncc  into 
•led  l>y  Ocncrnl  Taylor, 
ul  llio  iiTiiiyroiiininnl  in 
lull  it  uinvcil  wrHtvvivnl, 
y  runt  bank  of  the  Uio 
cnt  wn»  ninde  in  pursu- 
ed on  the  i:ith  of  Jivmi- 
(1,  the  despatch  of  out 

of  the  Council  of  Oov- 
int  he  received,  and  also 
y  of  Mexico— the  former 
i  iHih  of  Dt'cendxr,  IHlf), 
.sisn<;e  to  ronRrestt  of  the 
utiiu-nt  of  Stale.    The«o 

ifnotahRohitely  certain, 
e  Governnicnt  of  Oeneral 
ittle  hope  could  he  entc  r- 
redcs,  ill  case  the  revohi- 

sliould  prove  successful, 
uedes,  as  our  Minister,  in 
c  fiercest  hostility  aj;aiiist 
I'gotiation  as  treason  and 
le  to  put  down  the  Gov- 
[stofTexas  and  war  with 

These  were  the,  circum- 
jr  to  order  the  army  under 

to  ihe  western  frontier  of 

Rio  Grande. 

xican  invasion  have  been 
cterminaiion  of  Mexico  to 
was  alterward  inaniicsted, 
xican  Minister  of  Forei;;n 
the  l-ilh  of  March,  181G. 
^rnment,  and  his  Minister, 
xationofTexas,  which  had 
145,  proceeds  to  declare  that 
;er  exactness,  so  notable  an 
cessitv  that  Mexico,  for  her 
ness  and  dignity.     The  Sa- 
id that  it  would  look  upon 
icquence  of  this  declaration, 


BP.rnxn    ANMJAL    MESSAGE. 


371 

n«tr;:-r;:-rr^""--."-^^^ 

coa„„.,.d  on  „.  Tex,,r;r ',::'',;;  •'•<•■  ■'''■^'''-  «^"-'  "• 

•0  .lie  «  ■•MV  and  p   ,         ;■  ,i„    ,  '";  "'■"'■7'  '  • -  '-i  f-n  pled.,.,', 

<-I  l-a/ht  hinfiJ,,      .V  .;'";'"V'":  ■"'""">'  --'"'i-  -Inch 

l^^red.s  .d.|re,.„.dal,..    r,,.h  '    ''"'  "''  '*''^"     '■'^":   «'"•  r,,! 

'"■  »'•'-< '..  him, . ;,,  ;,  V  ,' ;  r'"""''*'^ "" """  •■-»'-  -•-.  -imc 

"""  ^-''i-'  "raiv,  either  fil'li''      '"'''"""  >'"""'"<'■  hcd  of 

•'-^  "•--i'i.^s ,..,  cli,, ;::::;;.  ;--•;;■''.. '' . i«,  in..i.p h,e 

•  neiny.'  .voiirst.ii  t,ikiii:r  i|„,  initiative  ag  li.Ht  tli« 

'-'--i'nr::i;;;i;:::;';:j^,.;X  -"^  -^  ".„ 

t"- .CIS  .owanlM.,ru  '■■'■'"   "'""''"   ''^'""   "»    "«- 

«;'-  onlers  he  nii„„J„  !  ;         .J'''^;;  :"'-  "'•;'  ^'f  "'-war;  and 
«'-  <-t  l,,,„k  of  the  RU.  Gr,.,n  i     ,„iH^;        T""'-'"."  '"^  ''"'''"""  "" 
•   -ntly  ndaiitted  as  one  of  tl,,    ;;'':"•  o.;   r''-^  "' 7'"""  ""'"  - 
general  of  the  Mexican  tore,  Jhl  '"""  "'"  •""'""'"n-lins 

«overn,nent,  had  coil  «  ^^   ""  ^'''''T''"  '"'  "'"  "''''-  "••  ''** 

«io  Grande,  crossed  ,!      ri    t     fv.  77  ""  ""•  "f ''"^'"'  -''-'■  '"•  "'« 
'•"^lilities  by  attaekin,-  our  f'.rre"  '""  '""""'■^'  ""''  <=»"">"=«ced 

citizens  on  :.ur  own  soii  '""-■'^'''"»  "'«  '''«»^'  ^f  our  ow^ 

o:!^e^:;i:'rr:::,rsri:;:;?"''^'^r-''^ -"•'--  ■ 

achieve.!  , heir  i„depen,lence,L7i,rht„t  ''"•'''  f  '''^''""''  '""' 
States.  At  a  general  electi'on  „  Sepll  .'ir,"!,'"'  T  "?  '^'"'"'" 
great  unanimity  in  favor  of  "„„„„,.?  '  ""^^  ''''<■"''■''  ^"it'i 

Minister,  to  bear  .hei.n'^f.ti:?''''"^^''  ^"«  appointment  of  a. 


»'-«r,»-r^.,S»,.,,,,,«g^..,^,,.,^^ 


'lHU!M"..l-,j)L..,iHjii-«».,. 


BECOND    ANNUAL    MKHHAOE. 


374 

,,„uu,  not  at  .hu  car,y  pcno..  '7-;:^  i;;.,':;::;;;::;'.:;:"!:'.? 

.,,,..„,,.  l,c  ,uanir..-tt..lh.=  wh.,1,-  «'orl.l  "•"'/;";„,„„.„  „„.,„  l,v 
Mexico  w«H  i.n,..-iM..,   r..  u..a  '"  "--^  '^^     /     ,     ,„„  „„...„  v.-rn 

ron^-ns.  ,„v.He.l   «  joint  reKoluLon   ' 'V    ""y'^;,,;,; ,,,,  „,,,„,  «■». 
,„  Hluct  orth.  0,,v..rn,n..nt  an,t  pcoplo  o        xu     on  t  .  ^^^  _^^ 

,„.  .,.,,,.1  for  that  1-n-',     •-         \3,^  U,r  p:.r.,tl,. 

-Z  ;;:';:;nt  ...U..on  ..  O.  .nnex^ic.  of^x.  .  ;.•  rrn.c.1 
StuUs  iuul  l.,..n  p:.Hs,Hl  l.your  '^"^'"'l'  "^^  ^'^^ u,.m,.,  ,1:... 
Uu«lnn,ton  .uUlr.ss,.!  .  note  to  the  ^'^^J'^^;'  ,^''.tn  „,  ,f ,  ,,,,n  s- 

.i..„,  the  n.ost  uniust  '^^i:;^'^^;; ^^^""^t.^^y  nation,  liUc 
modern  liiBtory;  luim.'ly  tUat  ot  "*"''"'"".„  „„.,  ,,rot(stin- 
Mexico,  of  n  considerable  p6rt.on  "^  ''^l^''^^  '.t  ,,  thereby  tI>o 
"->-'^:^:r:n1n:::r:::irS'S;  Mexican  territoi,  i. 

that,  as  a  consequence,  his  m..«.on  o  '>'«J"''  ''^f'  \,„,  „,,,„  „>o 
„.a  den,anacd  his  V^^^T'^  n^^^M  fo  h  r  in!h  "e.ul- 
„.„rd  pretext,  „.ade  ''y  ^^^^^.t  .Tp^^^^^^^  «''>l  -'- 

.rs,^rs::";ovedvain.^.^^^ 

Have  been  met  by  insult  -^'tt  note  of  the  Sectary  of  State  of 
.iVort.  to  this  end  commenced  m  the  note  of  'he  ^t^^'    X 
l,,e  10th  of  March,  1815,  in  answer  to  '^^^  f^J^/^ady  been  ex- 
Whilst  declining  to  reopen  a  ;^7"'"°"  "^'„' ^  fe  whole Lrkl,  that 
bausted,  and  proving  agam  what  was  l-"-"  ';  ^J«  ^  J^  ,^^^,,,,y  ,, 


^.ttaf.ijat.iB^gTqiqfe'^  M."  W""' 


IK. 

ricxntioii,  nor  until  it 
•,>iinu'!<lol"  TiXMH  l.y 
I,.  oviTiiinii  mutln  liy 
uorc  lu  >i>  w^vi'ii  yiir-i 
idipi'mli'm-".  'I  triiily 
,.  tollic  rnilr(lSI;lli'^., 

HI  fifHlol'Miri'li.  1^1''. 
i^r  h?r  to  ttic.  I'liit'-l 
wliifli  li'T  nHsmt  wm 
lli(!  (li'lihrriitionn  nrnl 
,s.  on  tUe  ill  qily  in''-'"- 
re;  knowr.  to  tlu' wnrM. 
f  'l"i'Xi\-t,  in  II  ('onvrii 
ml  iiniwiiiiiity  iIm'  i>ni 
imlcd,  on  Ik  r  p:irl,  tli" 
ast  territory  wliii'li  li^nl 
ro  than  n  quurli.r  ol"  ii 

of  Texfts  to  till'  Viiil'il 
■,  Mfxiciin   Minist.'r  nt 
^  of  Stato,  l)ri\rinu'  'I:'!'' 
it  i\n  ■'iiniu'tofn;.'!;''''"; 
aranl  in  tlie  nnniiU  of 
u    friendly  nation,  iiU" 
rritory;"  nnd   protcsliru'; 
jf  nn  act  ''  whereby  tlio 
ic  Mexican  territory,  ii* 
on;"  and  he  i\nnoiin<-ed 
cdStntcaliail  t'TiniiuUeil, 
\nted.     It  WHS  upon  tho 
Ichttd   for  her  indf'^end- 
abhc  of  Texas  still  con- 
icd,  a  province  of  Mexico, 
istcr. 

e  to  avoid  tho  war  whic 
ittcnipts  to  preserve  pence 
he  part  'of  Mexico,  My 
he  Secretary  of  State  of 
of  the  Mexican  Minister, 
ch  had  already  been  ex- 
1  to  the  whole  world,  that 
ndence,  the  Secretary  of 
It  that  Mexico  should  have 


BKC-ONI)    A\Nt:,U,    MKS.'^AriE. 


375 


taken  oironrc  «t  ihe  rrH„l„,ion  of  annexation  pa^e,!  by  Con-troM  nnJ 
Jl.ue  Ms-urniu-e  that  'our  nuwt  «tr.nuoim  rm.rlH  Hhall  bo  d'^ivoted  |o 
lw<  aniicabln  adju«liMe„t  „f  ,,v,.ry  cau«p  of  c.mpiaint  between  the  two 
<.ov,  rnment.  an,I  to  the  cultivation  of  the  kin.lcst  and  mo,t  friondlv 
Irliiiioiis  liclwei^n  the  Histcr  republicd." 

That  I  havn  nrted  in  il„.  spirit  of  lhi«  nMurance,  will  appear  fr,.i„ 
t  .«  evrnt.  ,vl,i,.h  h„v..  Hinre  occ.rre,!.     NotwithHlnndlnR  Mexico  l,,,,l 
"I-riiptly  tenmnate.l  <ill  diplomatic  inlercourm-  with  the  United  S|„|,.. 
<nwl  o,„l,t,  therefore,  to  have  been  the  rtrst  to  ask  for  its    resumption' 
yt.  waivin;;  all  creniony,  I  embraced  tho  earliest  favorable   opportu- 
iMty  "to  ascertain  from  the  Mexican  r.overnment  whellirr  tlicy  wo„M 
rrceivn  „„  ,,nvoy  fron,  ll,n  Pnited  Scie.s  Jnlrnsted  with    full  powrr  t,. 
adjust  all  the  qur,.t.ons  in  disput,;  betw.n,  the  two  Uovrrnuients  "     In 
f-I.te,Mb.T.  ISI.-,,  ,  ,,..|i„v,.d  the  propitioM:.  ,no,„e„t  for  such  an  overture 
hn.    arrived      T.xas   hv  the  entlmsiasll..   and   almost   unaniaious  will 
"Mirr  people,  ha,l   prnn,M,nee,l   in   ,„vor  of  annexation.      Mexico  her 
'-■I   h,.d  ai-reed  In  arknowlrd.,.  ,!,«  independence  of  Texas   «ul,j,..t  l„ 
.'  condit.on,  If  is  true;  which  she  had  no  ri.lu  to  i„.p„„,.,  „„d  no  power 
to  enloree.     The  last  lin^rriwr  hope  of  Mexico   if  «!„  s,i||  ,,,„id   |„,,. 
ivtaincd  any,  that  TeXM,  would  ev.r  a^nin  become   one  r  f  her  prov- 
inces, must  have  b,-cn  abanchmrd,  ' 

The  consul  of  the   r„it,.d    States   :,t    the  rilv  oC  Mexieo  was   there- 
ore,  mstructed  by  the  S,...r„.,ry  of  State  on   ,he  (ilbentl.   of  .s'..p„.n,- 
I'er.  ISl,,,  to  make  the  inqui-v  of  the   Mexican  Oovrnmenl      Th.    iu- 
<iu,ry  was  made,  and  „„  ,.,.,  .;a^p,„,,  ,,,.  „.u,;.r.  I  ,;-,   th,.  Minist-ro' 
I'orc.-n    ,An-nr.,   „,•  .h-    \! -v-an  ( i.v,.r,.  „,.m'    in   a   note  addressed  to 
«"r  consul,  ;:ave  a   fnorahl-  respons  •    ,.,,„.., in,.,  at   the  «a,„e  ,i,n, 
t.uit  our  naval  force  mi,r|,t  h  .  with  Inwn  fr,  „  Vrr,   Cm?  wl.ile  n-.r,,' 
l.a.,ons  should  be  p^ndinj       rTp.,,  ,h,.   rc-.pt  o,'  this   „„te   our  naw.l 
force  was  promptly  wilhdr.iwn   iVoa,  Vera  <•„„      a   Mini-ler  was  i,,,- 
'K-l,at,dy   appointed,    and   .lep  ,rt,  .1    to    M.xi.-o      (.v.-rvthin-r    bore    a 
l.rom,s,n^.  asp.ot  for  a  sp..e,ly  an.l  peac,  f,,!  a,ljns,:„..nt  of  alfour  didl- 
eoilie.s.      At  the  date  of  n.y  annu  ,l  ,u.s..,,,.  ,,;  r^,n.rr,.,.s.  in  D.cemb,  r 
la.t,  no  doubt  was  enteitained   but  ihal   l„.  would    be   rerriv,.!   bv  ih. 
-Ux.can  Government,  ami  the  hop.uas  el„  risV  d  that  all  cause  o  ' 
.KisunderstandiniT    b-tween  ,h.-  two  e„„H.n.s  would    be   sp.T.lilv   r- 
imnod.     In  the  contident  hop  ■  th  .t  s„eh  w„al  I    h.   the   result   of  I,:. 

nuss.on,  I  wiformed  Con.rn.ss  .l,at  I  for!,,,, ,  ,hat  tin,,,  m  -  reenmm,,' . 

such  ulterior  measures  of  redres.s  ,br  th.  wro„..  an.l  injuries  we  had 
^0  lon^r  borne,  as  it  wouM  hav.>  b-en  pr.,p..r  to  make  had  no  such  ne- 
U..t...tion  been  institu;,.!,"  To  n.y  surprise  and  r-sret.  the  Mexican 
(.ov,.vnau.ntahou.rh  .sol-uinlv  pl"d,.d  u,  do  „o  upon  the  arrival  of  our 
Minister  .n  Mexico,  refus.-d   .o  reoive  and   accredit   him,     Wln-n    he 


)t£l 


"■■■  '-g'BtWit-'.'    i','Wa'  Ui!,W«g««gJ».,»ntgiH;-pyiwa- 


'injiu'a-i,4-giny.iiiu:ajuivij»ii«iu„i!:i* 


imimu'wrn' 


376 


BFXOND    ANNtJAI,    MF.MACK. 


reached  V.-ra  Crux,  on  ih«  thir.cemh  of  N-e,  l-cr  Ifl  1. ,  Iw^^  foanJ 

I     .rnm.n    6{  Oenrr-.l  lUrrcu,  «l.o  wn,.  ..t  ih«.  l.m«  I'roH.,).-,    »t 

Lu  r    hn..  munif......!  h..  ,l..t.r,..ina.ion rtl.r.v.  .he  «ov..rn,..n 

of  llJrorn  by  a  military  rovc-lul'.-.n ;  «..l  ou.-  of  ...  pruK,,, ....n. 

wh    hh«employ«l.ocire.t  h.  r>ur,K,«^  an.,   r.rwlcr  .ho  «o,cmm,.nt 
r     1  rrca  oJiou.  to  .he  ar.n;,    and  the   ,.oplo  of  M.xko,  vv«-   by 

fro>ulhc  llnilcl  St....-,  ..II,  ,,inR  thai  it  w„.  the  inlcnlum  o.  H.rar., 
.V  u  irenty  with  .he  Unitcl  S.«l.«.  to  .h-,..n..l.«r  .h«  .err.t..ry  o.  M.x- 
1  I     c;Lk  «way  the  a..par„....,.t  .,f  T-xa.     ''■''^«-<■^n••-  ;'' 

«.rr..rtt  U  belicve.l  to  have  Ih-h  vv.ll  ,liH,,OM.l  t.,  a  pa-.f, lj..«t.a.,n 

"  :;iHtin«  ..itncuUie.;  hut,  probably  al  ,n,.. . U.r  .U  own  ...n  y, 
in  „r.l.r  toward  off  the  .hu.«er  of  Ih.'  r.'.h.l.on  h.l  '  >/  '  ^';  ^'^^ 
).t..a  i.B  Men,..  n«ree.nent,  ,....1  rrfuse.l  l-  rrv.m-  «r  »<-.-re,ht  ou  Mm 
S^  «n.l  thin,  aUh.n„h  .nlWr.ae..  .ha.  I-  l.ul  h.en  '"-nU-d  w.  h  ul 
p„w  r  .o  a.liu.t  all  .,ueHli.,nH  in  .linpule  b.t.ve.n  the  iwo  Gover..a,e.>^^ 
A  nmn.  the  fn.^vn 'pr.  .,x.-  for  .h.n  r,,u.al  the  pr„.e.|u.l  one  v,a,  .hut 
^  Ml.;!!.e;  haa  .  ,:  «one  „,.n  a  Hp.ei.l  ...i-nion  ^"^^"^'^^^^J^^ 

,ionofTe,UHalm.,,  vi,..  all  the  .u..r„.r,M  .po,.   o,.r  «"«"';'  J 

;,„,,.„«  „nre.!re Ti..  M.  xiean  .Jov  rn.n.  nt  well  knev.  .hut  loth 

:  r  .:.,i,.,„.l  honor  a...  ,he  protee..,,  a.;..  ...  our  --  -  -2;  ^^^ 
,..,,uir,a  .hat  the  .w..  question-  of  bo.M.;.  -y  ,.n,  .n,le,...  .y  .houU  c 
tre  .tea  of  to.re.h.T  a-  ..".-..rally  «..a  i..-parably  blended,  and  th  ,y 
;     ,.,  h,.v;.ee„  ,hat  .hi-  ...ur..  .vn.  i-.t  eah-ulated   to  enable   the 

U,:i,ea    .S.„.e«   to   ex.,  nd    ...    .he,n   .b. -t   hberal  JU.Uee.     On   the 

■  J  ,ieth  ol  De.-,.,..b,.r  IHir,  Oene,.l  ll.r.rra  r«».«..na  he  prcH.aency 
«na  ield  t  up  the  Ooverna.ent  to  General  l'..re.le«  w.lhou.  a  .trugsle^ 
t"  ren,U.ti„nwa«  aeeo.npli.he.l   «,.lely  by  the  army  cornm..nacd 

ly    ...  :  .L.  and  the  H..pre.ne  power  in  Mexico  pH.ed  .nto  the.   h,.n  s 
J,.   ....litary  usurper  who  wn.  k..own  to   he  b.l.erly  ho...Ie  to  the 

'''1ul!^!XrUe  pro-p...-.  ..f  «  ..•.'•i«c  ..dj,.«t,nent  w.th  the  „.w  Govern- 
ment w,,;  unpro,. ,.«...-'    .-..  'he  know..  ho«l.hty  o.  .t8  hea.    to  tne 

r.   ed  StaleH'vet  d..ter .,d  that  nothin,  Hho..l,l   he  le.l  un   ..ne   on 

o„r  part  to  restore  .•rie...lly  relu.ionH  l«.tween  the  two  co..ntn_,.«  o..r 
M  .Lterwa»in..r„e,e.l,o  present  hi.  enden.ials  to  the  new  Govern- 
,  an.l  ask  to  be  aceredite.l  by  it  in  tbe  diplo,..a..c  character  ,n 
^Idch  he  hr.l  l«^en  eo,.,n.i«Hi..ne,l.  Tl.,«e  .„..r.,et..,..-  he  exeeu..d  by 
Ti  note  of  the  tlrnt  of  Mar.-h  mX  a,l,l,o^.  d  .o.he  M-x,-.,  M.n..  e 
of  Foreign  A^.ir.  h.,t  hi.  n.q..e«l  wa.  i..suI.i...My  re,u«ed  oy  that 
Min  itc   in  hi.  «n.wer  of  the  twelrth  of  the  «.a.e  .M..ntb.     ^o  altnrna- 


f-Jk 


E. 

ilior.  lflir>,  lie  fiiuml 
liiH)i>y  rhuiiKc,  'I'Uo 
it  liin«  I'roHiili'fit  iif 

rnreili'd  (a  iniiilnry 
\u\f  Iht!  govi'rniiitiit 
lliu  principiil  mtniin 
ruler  the  Ki>»iTiiinint 

of  Mt'nii'K,  w""  I'y 

a  niiniirtor  of  jmiico 
inlenlUm  of  Hcrriirn, 
lilt!  terrilDry  of  Mex- 

Tlie  jnovcmuvnt  of 
a  piii-ifi<"  liiljimtincnt 
'  its  (iwn  i«fcurity,  nii'l 
I   1(1(1  lij   r'.irpdcH   viu- 
[■  or  iircrcdil  our  i^''"- 
ecu  invi'Hlcil  with   full 
llip  two  OovcrridifiitH. 
|)rinci|ml  ono  -.viis  timt 
i  confined  to  the.  ques- 
|)on   oiir  (IdS!  and  ""f 
t  w(  11  kncv'.  Ihnl  liotli 
r  fitixciiH  iiniJeriitivLly 
1  indemnify  kIiouUI  Im 
Uly  blended,  nnd  tlifiy 
k-uliit.-(l  to  cni\l)lo  tlie 
l)frul  justice.     On  the 
rsiifiiRil  the  prcHidcncy, 
•den  without  a  »tru(»f;le. 
,1  th«  nrmy  commiindcJ 
(iHSMcd  into  tho  hands 

bitterly  hostile  to  the 

I  with  the  new  Govern- 
lility  of  its  head  to  tiio 
oiild  be  lell  undone  on 

the  two  countries  oui 
liiils  to  the  new  Govern- 
diplomatic,  character  in 
ructions  hi!  extcutiil  by 

tolh«M.xic.,in  Minister 
illin:ily  rel'uHed  iiy  thai 
ine  iMontli.     No  altcrna- 


i-ss?TOa^^gw»'jeg*^w<.-M»M««iia^»-'J«B^-"«'^'''«'^"''''--^ 


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IMAGE  EVALUATION 
TEST  TARGET  (MT-3) 


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Photographic 

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,  ^....-..-J.JL,.  ,..J1..,,_.  ,.'.,.-...    .^.■.'..■■'■'■■-."',V,''.     .'i 


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m<amm}}  f^  Vt^  >\Lm  .     iiv" 


SECOND    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


377 


live  Tpmnincd  for  our  Minister  but  to  ilciiinnd  lii-i  piissportrt,  and  return 
to  the  United  States. 

Thus  wns  the  extraordinary  spectacle  presented  to  the  civilized  world, 
of  a  Governuient,  in  violation  of  its  own  express  aijrrcnicnt.  liavjnjf 
twice  rejected  a  minister  of  peace,  invested  with  lull  ])nwers  to  adjust 
all  the  existing  dilVercnces  between  the  two  countries  in  a  manner  just 
and  honorable  to  both.  I  am  not  aware  thai  luoilem  history  presents 
a  j)!irallel  case,  in  which,  in  time  of  peace,  one  nation  has  refused  even 
to  hear  propositions  Irom  another  for  terminating;  existinij  dilFiculties 
between  them.  Scarcely  a  hope  of  adjustinir  our  difficulties,  even  at 
n  remote  day.  or  of  preservincr  peace  with  Jlixico,  could  be  cherished 
vvhili;  Paredes  remirned  at  the  iii-ad  of  the  Government.  lie  ha<l  ac- 
quired the  supreme  power  by  a  mdilary  nvolution,  and  upon  the  most 
i-olemn  pledms  to  wajje  war  nirainst  the  United  Ntutea,  and  to  recon- 
ijuer  Texas,  w  hich  he  claiiued  as  a  revoked  province  of  Mexico.  Ho 
li.id  lienounced  as  ^juilty  of  treason,  all  those  Jlexicans  who  considered 
Texas  as  no  lon^'er  constitutinir  a  jiart  of  the  territory  of  Mexico,  and 
who  were  friendly  to  the  cause  of  peace.  The  duration  of  the  war 
which  he  wa^'ed  airainst  the  United  States  was  indefinite,  because  the 
end  which  he  proposed,  of  (he  reconciue.st  of  Texas,  was  hopele.ss. 
Hesidos,  there  was  croml  reason  to  believe,  from  all  his  conduct,  that  it 
wes  his  intention  In  cotiv.  rt  llie  fniildic  of  .^.lexico  into  a  monarchy, 
atul  lo  call  a  for<'ic;n  I'.nrop.-an  jnince  to  the  throne.  Preparatory  to 
tliis  end.  he  had,  during  his  short  rule,  destroyed  the  liberty  of  the 
press,  tolerating  that  portion  of  it  only  which  openly  advocated  the 
establishment  of  a  monarchy.  The  better  to  secure  the  success  of  his 
ultiiuate  designs,  he  had,  by  an  arbitrary  decree,  convoked  a  Congress 
—not  to  be  elected  by  the  free  voice  of  the  people,  but  to  be  chosen  in 
a  manner  to  make  them  subservient  to  his  will,  and  to  give  him  abso- 
lute control  over  their  deliberations. 

Under  all  these  circumstances,  it  was  believed  that  any  revolution  in 
Mexico,  founded  upon  opposition  to  the  ambitious  projects  of  Paredes, 
would  tend  to  promote  the  cause  of  peace  as  well  as  to  prevent  and  at- 
tempted European  interference  in  the  affairs  of  the  North  American 
continent— both  objects  of  deep  interest  to  the  United  States.  Any 
such  foreign  interference,  if  attempted,  must  have  been  resisted  by  the, 
United  States.  My  views  upon  that  subject  were  fully  communicated 
to  Congress  in  my  last  annual  message.  In  any  event,  it  was  certain 
that  no  change  whatever  in  the  Government  of  Mexico  which  would 
deprive  Paredes  of  power  could  be  for  the  worse,  so  far  as  the  United 
States  were  concerned,  while  it  was  highly  probable  that  any  change 
must  be  for  the'  better.  This  was  the  state  of  affairs  existing  when 
Congress  on  the  thirteenth  of  May  last,  recogniied  the  existence  of  the 


m 


rTfe!i*g.?«!rs*ai5'ii,^^?!Mijuw.«j.!i»w»w^ 


-'.^l'J<J-■w■.■J^ww^'l■. 


378 


SECOND    ANNUAL    MESSAGE, 


war  which  had  been  commenced  by  the  j»ovcrnment  of  Parcdc^,  anH 
it  became  an  object  of  much  hnportance,  with  a  view  to  a  «pcc,ly  set  • 
tiement  of  our  difficuUioa  and  the  restoration  of  an  honorable  peace, 
that  Paredes  should  not  retain  power  in  Mexico. 

Before  that  time  there  were  symptoms  of  a  revolution  in  Mcxko 
favored   as  it  was  understood  to  !«,  by  the  more  liberal  party,  and 
especially  by  tbnsc  who  were  opposed  to   forcifrn  interference  and  lo 
themonarch'ical  form  of  government.     Santa  Anna  was  then  in  exdc  m 
Havana,  having  been  expelled   from   power  and   banished  from  Ins 
country  by  a  revolution  which  occurred  in  December,  1811;  but  it  was 
known  that  he  had  still  a  considerable  party  in  his  favor  m  Mexico. 
It  was  also  e.iually  well  known  that  no  vigilance  which  could  be  rx- 
rrted  by  our  squadron  would,  in  all  probability,  have  prevente.l  hun 
from  elVecting  a  landing  somewhere  on  the  extensive  gulf  coast  ot 
Mexico,  if  he  desired  to  return  to  his  country.     He  had  openly  pro- 
fessed an  entire  change  of  policy ;  had  expressed    us  regre     hn    he 
h.d  subverted  the  fe.loral  constitution  of  IS^l,  and  avowed    ba    he 
was  now  in  favor  of  it.s  restoration.     He  had  publicly  declared   i.s  ho.- 
tilily   in  the  strongest  terms,  to  the  establishment  of  a  monarchy,  an,l 
to  Kuropean  interference  in  the  affairs  of  his  country. 

Information  to  this  effect  had  bocn  rrecived,  from  sources  bel;^vr,I  to 
be  reliable,  at  the  date  of  .he  ve..>,nitinn  of  the  existence  of  th  ■  ..,• 
•p.-  ron<Tress  and  was  nrtcrwanls  Cully  confirmed  by  the  receipt  of  I  Ik 
despatJi  of  our  consul  in  the  city  of  M-ico,  with  .lie  accompanying 
documents,  which  are  herewith  transmiUe.i,  Pesi.les  it  was  reasonable 
to  suppose  that  he  must  see  the  ruinous  consequences  .o  Mexico  ot  a 
war  vvith  the  United  States,  and  that  it  would  be  his  interest  to  favor 

'"u  was  under  these  drcumstances  ard  upon  these  considerations  Ih.nt 
it  was  deemed  expedient  not  to  obstruct  his  return  to  Mexico,  should  h- 
attempt  to  do  so.     Our  object  was  the  restoration  ot  peace   and  nvm.U 
Sat  vtew,  no  reason  wasperceived  why  we  should  take  part  with  Pa- 
redes and  aid  him,  by  means  of  our  blockade,  in  preventing  the  return 
ofl  is  rival  to  Mexico     On  the  contrary,  it  was  believed  that  the  intes- 
tine divisions  which  ordinary  sagacity  could  not  ''"^-/XpaTec  " 
fruit  of  Santa  Anna's  return  to  Mexico,  and  his  contest  with  Pared. ., 
Xht  strongly  tend  to  produce  a  disposition  wHh  both  parties  to  res  tor. 
and  preserve  peace  with  the  United  States.     Paredes  was  a    old  er  by 
profession,  and  a  monarchist  in  principle.     He  had  but  recently  belore 
been  successful  in   a  military  revolution,  by  which  he  had  obtained 
power     He  was  the  sworn  enemy  of  the  United  States,  with  which  he 
Tad  involved  his  country  in  the  existing  war.     Santa  Anna  had  been 
.xpelled  from  power  by  the  army,  was  known  to  be  .n  open  hostility  to 


t 


/VGE. 


f=l:f'.lM)     AWIAI,       II 


A(JK. 


.'{70 


■nmcnt  of  Parcdco,  ami 
n  view  to  a  spccily  set  ■ 
jf  an  honorable  ponce, 

3. 

I  rcTolution  in  Mo^iro. 
more  iibcrnl  pnrty,  nml 
iirn  interference  nnd  lo 
ma  WBS  then  in  exile  in 
and  banished  from  \m 
;cinber,  1811 ;  but  it  was 
in  his  favor  in  Mexico, 
nee  which  could  be  ex- 
ity,  have  prevented  him 
extensive  gulf  coast  of 
f.  He  had  openly  pro- 
esscd  his  regret  that  he 
21,  and  avowed  that  hi; 
publicly  declared  liishos- 
ent  of  a  monarchy,  and 
country. 

.  from  sources  believed  to 
thi'  existence  of  til"  \>  ^n' 
rued  by  the  receipt  of  the 
,  with  the  accompanying 
Pesides  it  was  rensonnblt; 
sequences  to  Mexico  of  n 
M  be  his  interest  to  favor 

1  these  considerations  tlmt 
■turn  to  Mexico,  should  In; 
ration  of  peace,  and  witli 
should  take  part  with  Pa- 
c,  in  preventing  the  return 
vas  believed  that  the  intes- 
not  but  anticipate  as  the 

his  contest  with  Paredes, 
with  both  parties  to  restore 

Paredes  was  a  soldier  by 
He  had  but  recently  before 
y  which  he  had  obtained 
iited  States,  with  which  he 
■.  Santa  Anna  had  been 
-n  to  be  in  open  hostility  to 


Purcdes,  nnd  puldiely  pled^'o;!  a;:;iii!:;t  (lirel  «n  inlervenlion,  and  t!ie 
restoration  of  monarchy  in  .'Mexieo.  In  vi,:w  of  t.'ie.se  f.u'is  ami  cir- 
cumstances it  was,  Ihiit^  when  orders  were  issued  to  I'le  eojnmandiT  of 
our  naval  fore.s  in  the  fJulf  on  the  (ilieenth  day  of  .^I:iy  last, only  tw,i 
(lays  aller  the  exislenee  of  llie  war  had  been  reco^ni/.^il  liy  Viuv.rr,---:, 
to  pliiee  the  coasts  of  .Mexico  under  b'oeliade,  he  was  din'el.d  jiot  I,, 
olKlrnel  lljc  passage  of  Santa  .\nMa  lo  Mexieo,  should  he  altrmpt  (.> 
nturn. 

A  r;tvoliUion  tool;  plaee  in  :\r.\-i.-o  in  the  early  part  of  ..\u'.;ust  I'ni- 
lowing  by  whieli  tlie  power  of  I>.;nihs  was  ove'rtlirown,  and 'he  h,'n 
since  been  liani.sliecl  from  the  eoiuUry,  and  is  now  in  exiliv  .Slmiilv 
allerwards  Santa  Anna  retu'ned.  It  remauis  to  lie  seen  whether  his 
r.  turn  m;iy  not  yi  t  j.rove  |,i  be  favor.il.le  lo  a  paeilie  a.ljustue'nt  of  tin; 
exis;uig  diincullies.  it  being  m.-mifesily  his  int.  rest  not  lo  pers.nere  in 
i:ie  prusreiition  of  a  war  eoniaienceil  by  ParMlrs,  M  aceoaiplish  a  par- 
p.ise  so  absurd  as  the  rceonquesi  of  Texas  l„  the  Sabine.  Had  I'a- 
r.des  remained  in  power,  it  is  morally  certain  tlml  any  paeilie  adjust- 
ment Would  have  been  hopeless. 

Upon  the  conunencement  of  hosliiiti.-s  by  ."\Iexieo  against  the  Unitul 
.'Stales,  the  indignant  spirit  of  the  nalion  was  at  nnee  rou.^^eil.  Con- 
gress prom|>IIy  responded  to  the  expectations  of  the  cuunlry,  and.  by 
liie  act  of  the  thirl:enth  of  :\I.iy  last,  reeogni/,,  d  li,,.  Tu-t  lluit  war  e.v- 
isled,  by  Ihe  act  of  Mexico,  between  the  Unite,]  Slates  and  that  repuh- 
)ie,  and  granted  the  means  necessary  for  it.s  vigorous  prosecution,  lic- 
ing  involved  in  a  war  thus  cojumcneed  by  :\Iexieo.  and  for  the  jusliee 
of  which  on  our  part  we  may  confidently  appeal  to  the  whole  world,  I 
resolved  to  prosecute  it  with  the  utmost  vigor,  Accordingly  Ihe  jiorls 
of  Mexico  on  the  Gulf  and  on  lln;  Paeilie  have  been  placed  umler 
blockade,  and  licr  territory  invaded  at  several  iaiyiortant  |ioinls.  The 
report  from  the  Departmenl.i  of  War.  and  the  -Navy,  will  inform  you 
more  in  detail  of  the  measure  s  adopted  in  the  emergency  in  which  our 
country  was  placed,  and  of  the  gratifying  results  which  have  been  ac- 
complished. 

The  various  columns  of  the  army  have  performed  their  duly  under 
great  disadvantages,  with  the  most  distinguished  skill  and  courair,.. 
The  victories  of  Palo  Alto,  and  Resaea  de  la  Paliiia,  and  of  :Monleri>v, 
won  against  greatly  superior  numbers,  and  against  most  decided  ad- 
vantages in  other  reapcfis  on  the  part  of  the  cncaiy,  were  brilliant  in 
their  execution,  and  entftle  our  brave  oflicers  and  soldiers  to  the  grate- 
ful thanks  of  their  country.  The  nation  deplores  the  loss  of  the  brave 
ofVieers  and  men  who  have  gallantly  fallen  while  vindicating  and  de- 
fending their  country's  rights  and  honor. 
It  is  a  subject  of  pride  and  satisfaction  that  our  volunteer  citizen 


l«4 


380 


SECOND    ANM.AI,    MKriSAGIi. 


11..  ilifir  countrv'it  ciill,  with  iin  ox- 
.,,,li,.r.  who  so  pro,n,.tly  -7-  ^i^^^'  "J^,  '  "  „w  weeks,  h.ve  born. 

ll.<-.r  P-. ...  .1.-.  '>'-•-'';.";';  ;:;tlm    worthy  oflh.  hi.h.si  .1- 

uy.  ana  through  a  w. Mem,..,  ha       1»     >  '  ^.^^  ^_^^^,^  ,,,„   ■,, 

,,v  ra,„.l  nK,ve,uent,.he  i;'"'^'"";  ',,  ,^  ,^,„;,      ,,„  naw  l,a.  eo-o,.,.- 
,,•,„,;,,  ,,a.  been  ca,ture.l  -ihou    W^  1  .  „,,^  ,„  ,,,,u,n., 

a.  ,1  with  .hear,ny.  and  [^■"f^""' '  .eel  .h.n.   on   their  own  eh- 

„  .  ,...cause  .he  enemy  "-'  "".  ;^'^,,iJ;'  .  ,  ,  ,.,.«  interpose,,  in  th,. 
n„n.,  an,l  hecau.,.  "^''-'V'''''''"  ;,;  '  \  '^  -o.st.  Oar  «,p.u,lron  in 
,„„-,,>,l.i,«  of  the  nav,,at,on  ""  '  /,  \  ^^^  ^„^  .,„.„,,,  ofthe  ar.ny.  an,l 
U>eI.aei.,,.,with,heo-l-  -  '^J^^^^^^  country,  have  ae.p.ir.l 
»  small  ibree  has„ly  ';:;^:  :„;,;„„,  ,Ue  .Va.ericun  fla,  has  h.on 
liloodless  posst}ssion  ol  tin-  ..-ainom, 

rais..,l  at  .very  important  p,.inl  in  ^"';M--;;;;;;-  „„^.„,,,  „,,  „.,U- 

.-n.ratnlate  you....he>u...^^w       .   -      __^^^_^^^^^  _^^^^,^  ^^^.^.^„ 

„,v  «n,l  ..aval  operafons.  In  '  ^  ','  ,^^^,^.„.  ,,,  ,,ave  taken  p,- 
..,o,nen..ea  hos.iU.i,_.  ;'  -j;^;:^  j^!!:'  ,..,  an„  p..rso,.,.  1.  r 
session  ol  M.anV  o.    h,  r  pm.  1  ,„•  „„,   MeXK-an  pvo^ 

inva.linsara.y.  an,l  -•'1^'-"" '^  j   >  ^i;  ,,,,,,,  Ta,nanlipas,  an.l    .h" 

""••■^  '"'.  "^'^  '""::V^;"i  x  -.t  .ban  ,hat  en.bra.-ecl  in  the  or,^- 
Calilbrnias,  a  terrn,.r>  larger   n  oonsi-lerabk  poi.ula- 

i,K.l  thirteen  States  o.  the  \  ;>"';'  ;„/,,,,,,,  .>oa.  the  points  at 
,i.,„,  „,.d  .m,ch  01-  .t  ...ore  ^'^^J^Zuu.^c.  our  n.ovements.  I'.v 
.vhirh  wo  ha,l  to  oollec  our  '^^^^^^  [,,,,,,  ,,,,,,  has  been  cut  o.V. 
tUeblocka.le  the  nnportan,!  ''^P";  '^^/^^  ^,,  ,„..,,y  an.l  ,ndlan.ry 
W..11  n.ay  the  Ana  r.ean  1"  "I'';.'"  1  ^  /jji^,.     ^Uc  events  of  the.,- 

lew  months  aOor.   a  f^rat,  yn      i  „,■  her  honor,  and  th.' 

,,,,„r.oney.  confuUntly  r.ly  ''''!''"";;;  ^,,,,  ,t  ,u  times  volunta- 
,..,„..  of  her  ;;^;2-:r  :ir;::'the  pfms  an.l  privations  of 
rilv  to  rehn.iuish  the  c.  mlorts  ^^^^  ^._^^^  expensive,  it 

„.;.  camp.  An,l  »''''"."'7,'^',,Va  .  o  coinniand  it  removes  the  no- 
is  in  the  end  eeonomieal,  as  tUc  n""»y  of  peaee,  an.l  provis 

that  our  people   love  iiieir 

,.„d  pr.ueet  tlnm..  vi,'orous«nd  successful  prosecu- 

Whllst  the  war  was  in  Y°"  ;«  "        7^,^   ,„j  considering  that,  al.er 


SECOND    AWUAI,    .MH-^SAGE. 


381 


•«  cull,  with  iin  rx- 
wcrkn.  luivo  liurm" 
Ih  n  i-onslaiiov  iiml 
jr  ol'llii:  hii!li"*t  :"' 
1  llu-  cneiiiy's  couii- 
with.iut  II  imirmiir. 
,  with  Siintii  Vf  il^ 
n-  navy  tins  coopir- 
,.;  if  not  so  briUi;int, 
u  on  llicir  own  cli- 
iiis  inliviioMi'il  i"  tl"'- 
l.     Our  siiuudron  in 
iccr  ofthe  iiriiiy,  i>nd 
inlry,  Ikivp,   uciinirnl 
iKTiciin  i\i\'i  luis  1-on 

Ills  ntttnilcil  our  mili- 
inoiitli^  atlor  Mexico 
If,  we  liave  tiikcn  l)os- 
;ick  anil    pursLiril  In  r 
of  the   Mexican  jn'ov- 
T;imiuili\ia9,  i\nil   th'' 
L  cinliraceil  in  the  orij;- 
a  consiileruble  l)Ol)ula- 
liles  from  the  points  ivl 
ce  our  movements.     Hy 
enemv  has  been  cut  r,lV. 
3  cn.rsy  and  sjallantry 
•s.     I'lie  events  of  theec 
^ountry  cim,  under  any 
c  of  her  honor,  and  ihr 
idy  at  all  times  volunla- 
pcrils  and  privations  of 
or  the  time  expensive,  it 
inand  it  removes  the  ne- 
ime  of  peace,  and  proves 
re  ever  ready  to  defend 

}*nd  successful  prosccu- 
nd  considering  that,  after 
di  and  ninth  of  May  last, 
a  by  it,  another  overture 
27th  of  July  last,  to  tcr- 


niincte  hostilities  by  a  peace  just  hihI  honorable  to  both  countrie,>i.  On 
the  thiity-tirst  of  August  following  the  Mexican  (loverriment  ileclined 
(0  accept  this  friendly  overture,  but  referred  it  to  the  decision  of  a  Mex 
lean  Congress,  to  he  iissi'inbled  in  lint  early  ]iiirl  ofthe  pn'sent  nionlli, 
I  communicate  to  you  herewith  a  copy  of  the  lettir  ofthe  Secrttiiry  of 
State  proposing  to  reopen  negotiati'ins,  of  the  answer  of  the  .Mexican 
(iovernment,  and  ofthe  reply  thereto  ofthe  Secretary  of  Stale, 

Till!  war  will  continue  to  be  prosecuted  willi  vigor,  as  the  best  means 
of  securing  peace.  It  is  lioped  that  the  decision  of  the  Mexican  Cori- 
gresB.  to  which  our  last  overture  has  been  referred,  may  result  in  a 
Npeeily  and  honorable  peace.  With  our  ex|)erience,  however,  of  the 
unreas.)nable  course  ofthe  Mexican  aullioriliis  it  isthe  part  ofwisduin 
not  to  relax  in  the  eneruy  of  our  military  operations  until  the  nsull  is 
made  known.  In  this  view,  it  is  deemed  iiiipurl.uil  to  hold  mililary 
jiossession  ("fall  the  provinces  which  have  been  taken,  until  a  ddinilive 
In  aly  of  peace  shall  have  been  concludeil  and  ratiliid  by  the  two 
ciHintries, 

The  war  h:is  not  '"'en  wagrd  with  a  view  to  eoniiii.  .-I  ;  but  having 
been  coiMai.jiccil  by  .'Me.xico,  it  has  lieen  earii.  il  irilo  the  enrniv's  coiiii- 
Iry,  anil  wdl  be  vigorously  pri)seeuted  llii  re,  wilh  a  Mew  to  obtain  an 
linnorable  pi  ace,  and  llieriliy  secur,-  ample  indiinnilv  for  llie  e,\pinse» 
of  llie  war,  as  well  as  to  our  nnich-injured  citizens  wlio  hold  l.irge 
P'i'uniary  demands  again,it  .Mexico, 

l!y  ll\e  laws  of  nations  a  cofiiiuered  territory  issuliject  tn  be  governed 
by  the  coni]ueror  during  his  military  possession,  and  until  there  is  either 
a  In  aly  of  peace,  or  he  kIiuH  voluntarily  withdraw  from  il.  The  idd 
civil  Government  being  necessarily  superseded,  it  is  the  right  and  dulv 
of  llie  conqueror  to  secure  his  conquest,  and  to  provide  fur  llie  niainle- 
Minee  of  civil  order  and  the  rights  of  the  inliMiilaiils.  This  right  has 
bri'ii  (xercised.  and  tliis  duly  performed,  by  our  military  and  naval 
coMiinanilers,  by  the  eslablisliment  of  temporary  governmints  in  some 
of  tlie  ciuKiuered  provinees  in  .^lexico,  assimilating  them  as  fir  as  prac- 
lieiihle  to  the  free  insiitulions  of  our  own  country.  In  thi-  pnivinci  s 
of  .\ew  .Mexico,  and  of  the  Calil'ornias,  little  if  any  further  resistance 
is  apjirehendiil  from  the  inhabitants  to  the  temporary  governments 
which  have  thus,  from  the  necessity  of  the  case,  and  acconling  to  llie 
l.iws  of  war,  been  establisheil.  It  may  be  proper  to  provide  lijr  the 
.•<ieiirily  of  these  import.uit  eonqui'sl,*  liy  making  an  adequate  appro- 
pri.ilion  for  the  purpose  of  erecting  forlifiealions.  and  defraying  the  ex- 
P'lisi  s  neci-ssarily  ini'i.l,  nl  to  the  maintenance  of  our  possession  and 
anlhorily  over  thi'in, 

\' ;ir  ih"  closi-   of  your  la-;!  session,   for  reasons  communicated  to 


Congn,-;s,  I  deemed  it  impoitHiit,  as  a  measure  for  securing  a  speedy 


1^ 


nw 


PIXOMI    ANM'A'' 


Mr.s.-Ai;i'.. 


i[iri.iti'il.  'i'>- 


''^-••--'^-:i::.."r,::,:::::£t,;:;:^ 


ilinl  .Till'.TSim 


!1- 
111 


,H  oKjr.M  i>.  w.  11   known.     U  w»s  <  t  th.,t  Iwm  .n  I  ^^^  ^ 

lM,;in«  tocniil.lf  Ui.'   I  i    -i''' ..i  >  ,       i.f^.^j.l,  „t  Id  ns 


,.   „,.o,..nrv  iV.r  tU.-  I'rusi.l.  nt  t-  ns 
„,-,!iin!;smi;i!itlwvc»riH''""\^'"''- 


1    ICIl 
lil-.V- 


lMi;in«  - 

....  „„|,i„,,  ,1,.-,..  .-anno.   b.  a,mU..>l.  ■  ,„•  ,,,,,i,,,.,, 

,..<.o„>nun.lc,l  .t  your  lu«t  ..'.s.on  n..!  ^^''I'    '  '      ^,.,„...,„,  ,■„,„,.,  , 

Wllumkin.  un  appropruaum  o.  t    »  'u   1  >-      .       ^,^  ,„^,;,„„ 

'PI,,,  reasons,  whi.'h  niau(  >  .1  ni.  i  .  ,.„„si.l,  riUion   a.ul 

.till  ..xis, ;  ana  I  a^uin  snbaot  '1"  .-'^;;     '     ^'^  :,„  ,„„  ,,,,,.,.;„■ 

,,i,U  Mex-u-o,  n,y  allonUon  w.s  ■';y-';^^^„  ;>,:,,■,,,,  ,.  .■  y  noon 
„„„Utbnn.t.a  out  in  the  ports  ot  ^  "';,".  ,,,,,,,,,,,,,., i,  ,,,,-,.lin:> 
,u:..o,nnu.r,...  oHb.  ^^--'  ;^-;;:' ^  .  I  i':; 'our  tr.a.y  wi.b 

''";'iras  ,n,.  pl..ur,.  to  in.-ra.  you  , ha,  i;]^i;^-;^:^,:;:::;;Z 
,,„„   ,,.  spani.h  Gov.rnaK.nt  tl-.  Hu.  a,,^  ,   ^..^^^  iaun-ai- 

,,HU,.llyobs.rv,.aon.,.par.J^-^    ^^ 

;-:isrspi'r;r;r^^^^^^^ 


J 


\i;i'.. 


fr.fdMi  A.NM  Ai.  mi: 


A(a;. 


388 


,M  111!  :-.  ;)|iriiiiri,i|i'(l.  nii.l 
In  tliiit  whifli  iiK'l  '"''I' 
luliiiini.-flnilio"  of  Tn  si- 

,,l,r..iiriiitioti  oflwoiiri!!- 
li,|„.,:.lofllii'  l>rcsi,!.-iit 
in  cintiniii'.i'i'Kin  <•>  »'" 
,„1,,1  to  l.r  iMH>li'''l  »*  •' 
,,1  u,t  iImI  tirnt.iry.  On 
,„„  was  ill  lili''  miiriirr 
the  I'lm-iiliis  fn.iu  Sim'ui. 
,.  iii'L'c'liiili"!"'  •""'  '"*;'• 

lb,-    i:ii|iurtinll    (ilijr.'ls   in 
llir  the   I'tLsiih  nt  Id  us 


vi\\\  liavc  uriH'ii  in  w 


hi'l. 


t„  >l,i  -(.,  ami  llur  wirt.loai 

1„  ii.  Mil  lliiU  Ihi'  mi-iisiir.! 
h,.  upimvluition  "f  ili't-i'l'"' 
Kicnl,  in  (lillVr.iil  fonns  a 
ns  of  .lo!l:«rs  l'-^'*-"''  •  "■" 

it   .liil  nnl  \»H-i)aiii  11    ^'■■■■' 
,1  the  inoasure  iil  di^it  I'm  ; 
or  your  cotisidrration   un.i 

it.'  ShuiiM  till'  aplirnpria- 
;,ii,  in  llio  trrasiiry;  s'aoiil." 
n  iKvrt,  it  will  lie  "'-'-•™i"''' 

.,1  tlio  pxistrnoe  of  lUo  wa; 
llic  (lanuiT  HkU  vi-i^"'"  " 
,1,1  I',.rt..  Ui.-.<  til  I'^'y  "!'"" 
invitril  tlic  sp.'Oial  atlmlinn 
Uhartii'li' orMirln^iity  wi;!' 
).->,  umlcr  wliii'li  Hi':  ••ili/-'"' 
ke  commissiiins  or  UH'Tm  i>l 
.tlicr  "sluilllx'  imiiisluil  a.-" 

I  I  have  rfT'ivial  assiiran.-.^3 
xrticli'  of  Uio  ItPHty  sliall  l"i 
r  tlii^  viuvpiwf-  wcT.^  iimnoli- 
,  thpiUitlH.vilii'snff""!"'"'"' 
.  in  pivvrntin';;  any  aU.mpt^i 
,stlUe  IniKil  StaUs.  Kroai 
d  thiU  this  tr.;aty  will  bf  fX.> 


cmMl  111  ilM  spirit  as  well  iw  its  Irllrr:  whil-t  iIm  I'nitrd  Stalls  will, 
o'l  till  ir  part,  laillil'iilly  prrl'.iriii  all  lln-  Diili.'aliiiiis  wliii'li  it  iiiipnxi  s  dii 
llii  111. 

Infiiriiiulinn  liasliiiu  ria'ijiilly  ni'rivi'd  at  tin;  I  irpartiiKiil  (if  Mati; 
111  it  llio  Ml  xiiuiii  <ii)M  riiiiii  lit.  han  stnt  In  Havana  liimik  iDiiiiiii^- 
i-iiiMs  tf>  privHtrcrH,  iiiul  IdaiiU  cfrlilicatrs  of  naliiruli/.aliiin,  sitrnid  liv 
('<•  III  r.il  SMas,  llifi  (iri'si  Ml  li.iul  111'  till!  .'Mr.xicaii  (.iuvirniiii  nt.  'rlinv 
IS  alvo  riiaK.iii  111  iipprrllillil  that  hiuiilar  iliicuiuriits  lla\r  lin  ii  tiMiis- 
iiiiilid  t'l  (itliir  parl.s  III'  till'  wurlil.  IJopits  nt'  (hi  sc  pajii  rs  m  ir,iiisla- 
1,  .1     II-.'  li.ri-«itii  iraiisiiiilird, 

.\s  tin;  pnl.uiiiiiirii  H  nspiTlini.'  Ilir  jirai'ticr  of  civiliz.  d  lialinns  rum- 
iiii-MUininu' I'fi^'iil"''''' 1""'  ri'i;illaliiii;  llii.ii-  I'liiiuu,!.  apjiir  iml  In  l..,vo 
hi  I  II  idirtfrVL'il,  and  '\-i  I'i'Sf  co.iiiiii.-isiiMis  arr  in  hiaiili  In  la- llin  .i  iin 
Willi  Ihr  nanus  nf  .  ,i...  :,-.  :m  i  -iii.|.  lis  m'  all  liutiuiis  wli,>  mav  h-: 
wi!linj  to  [lurcliasc  lluiii,  ihr  wliuli:  piooia'din^'  caii  only  he  (;iiiisiri;i  d 
as  an  iiivilaliim  to  all  thii  fri'idiimlrrs  iipiiii  carl li,  who  arc  williiuv  lu 
pay  fur  tin:  privili;.'p  in  cruisr  a^ani.^l.  Ann  rii-an  ru'iiiiu  ire.  U  will  bu 
llir  f.iir  I'ourls  o;  Juslicf  lo  dL'iddL^  wlnllnr,  iiiidiT  sui'li  I'ircuinslaiicos, 
liiisr  :\Iixii-'an  Itllirs  of  inarijiH'  and  riprisal  shall  jinilrct  lluisu  whi) 
ari-ipt  tlii!ii,  anil  coiiiiiiit  roliliini  s  iipmi  the  liiirh  srus  uiid.ir  tlnir 
aiilhorily.  frniii  ihr  pains  and  p.nallies  of  (lirncy 

If  ihi'  .cijriilli-ali's  of  liallirali/.atiiin  lliii.^  urunlcil  In;  inl' ndid  b\- 
Ml  xii'ii  lo  hhiild  Spanish  stihjtrts  from  llie  {.niilt  and  piini.-lnin  nt  of 
piratis,  undir  our  trialy  with  Spain,  liny  will  certainly  pr.nr  im- 
nvaiiinjf.  Suili  ii  suhlirlilije  would  he  hut  a  wi;ak.  ih  \i,-c  In  di.l'L.it  ihi; 
pri.visiiins  of  a  snliinn  treaty. 

I  rcooiiinitnd  that  L' nmrcss  should  iiiiiiicdiiiMdy  provide  hv  law  fur 
thu  Iriiil  and  pu;iisliiui'iil,  as  pirates,  of  Spanish  .subjeels  who,  cseapiii' 
'he  viirilanee  of  iheir  Govi  rnim  nt,  shall  he  Ibuml  guilly  of  privatecrinif 
nuainst  the  United  S  ales,  1  do  not  apprehi;iid  sirior.s  dan  it  from 
Ihese  privateers.  Our  navy  will  he  eonslanlly  on  the  aler  oroteet 
in.' eoiiimeree.  l!i  sides,  in  case  prizes  should  he  iii.iile  e  .,  .-ieun 
vi  ss' Is  the  utmost  viitilaiu'c  will  he  exerted  liy  our  hlockadii  ■  .iiuail- 
riiii,  lo  prevent  the  eaplors  from  takiiij;  them  into  ^'Mexican  ports,  and 
il  is  not  iippri  hi  nded  that  any  nation  will  violate  its  neulrahlv  hv 
siill'erini.'  siieli  prizes  lo  be  condemned  and  sold  witliin  its  jurisdietion. 

I  rceoinmend  that  Conirress  should  immt'diately  provide  by  law  lor 
irraiilinir  letters  of  marque  and  reprisal  against  vessels  under  the  .Ali  xi- 
eaii  llai,'.  It  is  true  that  there  are  hut  few,  if  any,  coinmereial  vessel 
of  Mexico  upon  the  hiudiseas;  and  it  is,  ihirefore,  not  probable  that 
many  American  privateers  would  he  filled  out.  in  ease  a  law  should 
pass  aulhoriziiij;  this  mode  of  warfare.  It  is.  iiotwilhsl  Hiding',  ci  rtaiii 
that  such  privateers  may  render  good  service  lo  the  commercial  interests 


I 


I 


nsi 


BlU'OND    AN  MM.    M  r.S!»A<i  F.. 


,,,„„„.l  H.at..,n,.nl  ol'  tlw  .-on,  htn-n  ,     '';;';■  „,,';.,,,,..  vain,. 
„„.  ,l.-al  y..,>r  ..n,l,n.  on  ,h-  .h.r,....n   .  '   j^^  ;     ,;      ,     ,,.,„ , 

.,„„,  „,.,,  ,|,ir,....„  .nillion  four  turn   nji  ami  '  ^      -    ,,,,  ,^^,„  ,„,„„„ 

::;;;:t::::rr,;:;;r;:::;::;  .;;^:-r;-: 
s;:;:n;i;;:;;=:"::";:-"-- , 

The  m-nplH  into  th-  Treasury  lor  .lu.  -"  ';^,  ^  ,,^,„,,.„,    ,„„, 

.nillioHB  four  luUKln,!  a,.,l    '-"^7""':     ''     ;  '     j:;,  "  |  Tro.n  ••» 

„„„;  ,w,.nty-Hix  n>ill.on  .v,.,,  h.u.lr.a  a...l  l«   U    '  !       "  ,„.     ,,,„, 

,„„,  sUly-scv..,.  .lollars  an.l  ..,,l>.y-»--n  ;•"■;,  ,„,  „„',„„,, 

.„„,  n,ty-two  dollars  a,.,l  '"^'y-'^";  "■"'",''"' i^l,,,  an.l  .w.n.y- 

HiK  dollar,  una  s.vrn.ycn.. .',  nls.      1 1     <  "1"  "  '  ,     ,  ,,„,,  ,;,„r. 

teer,  dullarH  and  twenty  c,  n,s   and  t  >.■  balan,     ^^     ^^  1         ^^ 
first  day  of  July  l««t  was  .nn-  ■■"'"""''',''  1,  t  nn.s.      " 

a,„u.ar.d  four  hundred  and  th.r.y-nu„.  '  ''1';'^    '  '  /  ';'^  ,',  .,„  ,u.  first 

:;:;;.;;:::::::;;;:::  i:anLy-an.ra.d.a.^ 

which  th..  sun.  of  s,.v..n„...n  nnlhon  --'"'^'i.'t^lri,;,  ,,"„,« 

,„ousand  sev-n  >'-'';' 'V'-lrMarlariv"^  the  .nount  in- 
^vas  outstamlin«  on  the  tourtl   ot  March,  1  ,\^^,^.^,,,n  ihou- 

,.„„,d  .,n..c  that  tune,  six  uulhon  ■'-    ^'^^  '    .,       ..^   e.-.s, 
..nd  six  hundred  and  ^'';^'y;^l;^':^:^' :2^^,^ ,n^  energy,  aB 


lAOF., 

,,■11  iiH  l>>  .•nplurinn  IIuh" 
r  ))i)w;  r  ^lll>lllll   '"■   ■■'■"■ 

.  TniiHury  will  rxliiliil  n 
iiKiii'i's.     Till'  imi">rl'<  I'lf 
nr  last,  were  cil'lll-'  viiliir 
hiiriilriil  mill  nindyomi 
liir«;  orwliiclillv  iiiiMuiiit 
luvl  lorty-'<ix    llioiisMii.l 
r  till    umount  nliiinnl  in 
"luiiiiirr,!   iin.l  ten  liulli"ii 
|„i,i,lrc-.l  aiui  s.'vcniy-rour 
.iiiic  (M  ri."l  \v;is  onr  hiin- 
(i.:lilv-i  iulil  tli<ni><iiiiil  livi: 
liuMclrril  mill  twii  iiiillii'ii 
liimrlriil  mi'l  niii.ly-lliro' 
,uiil   ilcvrn  milliciii   iIh-m; 
.,1  iiiiil  iwinly  tlir.1'  (l.iHarM 

m<:  y.ar  vvcro  twcnlv-nini' 
lousiiiiil  two  luiiiilrid  mill 
lliinwiiKdrrivcil  rnmi  I'li-*- 
wclvcllunismiilsixluniilriil 

;.,.nls  ;    friiiii  ^il'-*  '"'  I'"'''"' 
-tlvr  tlii.usmi.l  Uiur  luiiuln  il 
s,  iinil   from  im'iil'>i">l  mnl 
„1  i.Mc  luindreil  Hiicl  twnity- 
i,.nilitiin'stortluit«nim'iH'ri"'l 
luul  <i','lit  liiindrnl  ami  lour- 
ani'c  111  111!'  Treasury  .m  lln' 
nr,  liiiiiilriil  mill  twenty-six 
llurs  iiiiil  ci^'lit  eenis, 
,u-  treasury  notes,  on  llie  first 
,Mi„n  two  hun.lre.l  ami  liAy- 
r  dollars  and  sixty  cents;  of 
n   hundred  and  eiijIity-eiKlit 
,  dollars  and  sixty-two  cintH 
Ksl.'i.  leavinir  Hie  amount  iii- 
nidreil  and  sixty-seven  thou- 
iiml  iiiiii  iv-eisilit  cents, 
Kieowilhviiiorundenerjiy.as 

Iv  and  honorable  termination, 


BnCO\n    AN'MAf,    MMHSAOR. 


88A 


n  tiiillier  loan  will  l,e  nereHsary  to  meet  rhe  expenditiiri  s  lor  tlie  |,rei<pnt 
ami  llie  mxt  liseal  ^♦arH      If  the   war  hIimiiIiI   he  eonlinued  uiitd  lliu 
thiin.lli  of  June,  |,sH_.i„,jn^,  ,|„,  ,,,,1  „,•  ,,„,   ,„^j  ,.^,,,^,  y,,,,^ _  j^  j^ 
rstlinateil  th.it  an  ailditionul  li.iin  of  twenty  three    tnillioiis  of  dollars 
will  (le  n  i|ulred.     This  estimate  in  inmle.  upon  the  asHumi.lion,  that  it 
will  (,n  necessary  to  retnin  conntantly  in  tho  Treasury  lour  inillioMH  .if 
ilolUrH,  to  iruiird  iiL'ainst  contini;rneieM.     If  «ueh  surplin  were  ii„t  re- 
ipiirff  to  hi;  retained,  then  a  Kian  of  nineteen  miliums  of.lnllars  would 
I"'  si.flleient.     If  however,  Conirn  ss  Hhuul,!,  at  ihe  pres.  nt  si  ssion,  iin- 
piise  n  revenue  duly  on  the  prineipal  arlieh  s  now  emiirareil  iji  ij,,.  |Ve.) 
list   it  ts  eslimalid  that  an  ,ii|iliti„nal  annual  revenue  of  alumt  twn  mil-  ' 
liims.amla   half  amoiiiiliiiir,  it    is  eslimattd,on   the  thirtieth  of  .luiie, 
h^l-i  to  four  millicms  of  dollars,  wouhl  he  derived  from  that  son  ne  ;  ami 
the  loan  required  would  he   reduced   hy  that  amount.     It  Is  eslimaleil, 
al^o.  thatshouliU'onijressjrraduale  and  reduce  the  price  of  such  ofth,! 
)iiiMi'    l.-inds  as  have  heen  loni;   in  the  market,  the  additional  nvenuu 
'!•  nvi  il  inmi  tli.'it  source  would  he  annually    for  several  years  to  come, 
h'lwr,,,  halraiiiillioii  and  a  million  of  dollars;   au-l  the"  loan  required 
may    l.e   r.duced   liy   that   nmmint   also,      shouli,'   these   measures  Im 
adopt,  il,   the   liMii   r,,iiiiieil   would    not   prohahly  excee,!   ei.rhteeti    or 
ninele,',,  millions  of  .lollars--leavin;r  in  the  Treasury  n  constant  surplus 
ol   lour  millions  of  dollars,     'I'lie  l,mn  prop,m,',l,  it  is  estimated,  will  l.n 
sulhiii  111  to  .-over  the  necessary  ixpendiluri  s,  holh  for  the  war  and  for 
all  i.llier  purpo,s,;s,  up  to  thi;  ihirlielh  of  June,    ISIM;   „nil  an  amount 
ol  this  loan,  not  ,xce,.,lin!r  on,'  half,  may  he  re,,uirid  ilurin^r  i|„,.  p,v,s,.nt 
h.scal  year  and  the  -r,.„t,.r  part  of  the  rfuiaimhr  duriii.^  the  lirst  half 
ol  llie  liseal  year  sueeei-ilinj;. 

In  order  that  timely  notice  may  l.e  oivin,  and  proper  measures  taken 
to  elliet  the  loan,  or  such  portion  of  it  as  may  hn  rciuir,,!,  it  is  im- 
poilint  that  the  authority  of  Congress  to  make  il  he  given  at  an  larly 
P'  iiod  of  your  present  session.  It  is  su^'!;,'slrd  that  the  loan  should  ho 
eimlraet.d  for  a  period  ,if tw.nty  years,  with  aullmritv  lo  purchas,.  the 
stoek  and  jiay  it  olV  at  an  ,.arli,r  period,  at  its  ni.irket  value  out  of 
any  surplus  whieli  may  at  any  lime  he  in  the  Treasury  applieahl,.  to 
that  purpose.  After  the  ,  stahlishment  of  peac,.  with  M"exi,-o.  it  is  sup- 
posed that  «  considerahl.'  surplus  will  exist,  nn,l  that  tiie  del.t  may  he 
e.xlinjruishe.1  u,  a  „,,„.!,  shuru-r  i.eriod  than  that  for  which  it  may  Im 
contraetdl.  The  p,  ,i,„i  oftw,nty  years  as  that  for  which  the  proposed 
oan  may  he  cmitraeteil,  in  pref,  r-nce  to  a  shorter  periiid,  is  su,-e.te,l 
because  all  experience,  holh  at  home  and  abroad,  has  shown  that  loan^ 
are  eileeled  upon  much  h,  tl,  r  I,  riiis  upon  loni,r  time,  than  when  they 
nre  reimbursed  at  short  duteii, 
Nacessary  as  this  measure  is,  to  sustain  the  honor  and  interest  of  the 

17 


i 
I 


.«0 


»KIUM>    ANSI    \l.    Ml.frfAlir.. 


1 


...,un>rv,r„:;n,,,luMM;.r,,. m.  h  „.,uU.M„n U.a.'.n.r.M 

u,ll  prMM.pily  autl.onz.Ml.  ,,  ,  ,„„„ 

■llir  lialiiii.'i  irilio  "ni>'-Miy  I'll  tl"'  I'l-l  "I  •"">  ""  '*      ,     ,  ,      ,. 
„.,      „        a ollur-.  no,w..l,.. IMU  C.mM.l.  rM-l-  -M^  n.M.n  .  h:-!  I- 

:i;;:;:;:;;-;:;:r;::;:::;;^:^::"^:;;t"--™  = 
;;;;,:::;;:;::;:::';■;:.;::.'"' ^; '"--"Tti:,:- 

;•!:;:-;;  r*r:r~;:':;;;::;::::=f«l.^i. 
""•:'»:::■■;;:•  :-ri"::r  :;.='-- ;:'"-» 

,uviu">r"«'M'"'«"""' •'"■•■;"  |„.  .1..,  m.-.l  u«uil.'r 

'''^-;^;:;;'rr':::'::  ;:;;"'::m'^^'"^^-         >• 

.,,r„i.rr.  l.Mt   %Mn,  ..  1  ,  ,,„Htp..ii.',l  to  :i 

;;;;:.::. .  v :  :lv.:  to  >,.  •ivc.ury,  a..,i  ..,,,,,„.. .,.  ..ui..,.  ..i 

'-;— ;:;.!;:'i:.t:i::^n:;x;';:;^.n...^ 

,.:;;2L.M,..up,„n..'(:ov._n.,,.nt.W^^^ 
"        ,  1     nuM,.  re...  ohj.  tH  whic!.  n,ay  or  H>:.y  not  br  nu.l-,  wui- 

„„      ,     '.  ,.„u.  in.  J  op.  ration  until. l.o  lirslof.l..  prcs-nt  .nonth.   lure 

;;::,.  tim,.  for  its  praotioal.tlVt   up-'  tUo  fvcnu,.  an.l   .!,« 

i  ::>  :l    f ,   ,     ountrv.  to  L.  .l,.v..lop..,l.     It  i.   .u,t  doabuJ,  however 

M    Ivc    o.t  policy  ;vl.icl.  .  aaopts  .ill  add  lar,.ly  to  our  ...c„a 


Mir.. 

uMiil  I'ul  lliul  ('•nsri'i** 

.liit\  li»t  «\i-'i  .li-.|  iiiri» 
,.  c  \|M  lulilun^  liii'l  I'"  » 
ml  Jiii\>'  iinciilmi;.  Hut 
I  wmil.l  li.ivi-  !»■  II  I  '■ 
,irt  11  |i.trl  oi'  I'lv  "'"'  ' 
jiu  iiH  Imr.l  II,  iiii'l  1'''"'" 
iilil,'  it  Ik  Mil  'I!  ill.  jiilU- 
wliiiU  i«  iiiii^t  i(>mii».li'iit 
lu)limiiu-  |irii;!rr;<rt  nf  nuf 

A  M<  xii'"  iiriMiii!  "Ill  "1" 
i  iH  siiu'i;  tin:  wiir  itii  nil- 
,„i-.liiiary  .xiii'iiiliHiV' -»  ii» 
ir  own  iinijilr  will  lliMk" 
pohsililc  ibr  ili.t''  <  ^1''  "■ 

,1  iill  liiiMri  :i  lii^''  ''"'■.'' 
iiimiiliiwi'  to  til''  I'^iil'''- 
)„  rin.l  of  war.  wlaii  ian'" 
vi.i.KiM'.  I>uriiiu'  111''  '  J*- 
ivrrt  slioiiM  lit'  liunlmiiili  .1. 
re  iih^uluti'ly  Mi'C  x^ory  i-r 
iratiiiii  oi'llii-  (ioviriiiiiiul. 
may  111'  il'-'iiii'<l  "'*'!'>''  '"■ 
,r  tin;  pulilii-  m'r\ii'i'.  Hiuy, 

liir,    111!    will    ll(IHtllllll'-.l    til    :i 

ilioy  at  Diir  |iri-:<i-nl  h.  ssimi, 
f,  ttii'l  aiipli'  il  to  ol.j.clH  I'l' 
c  (■.rriilion  01'  a  n)n'''!'iiiiii'l- 

.nliiiary  ami   nrci  ^si  'ry  ai'- 

I  ^ll..llM  111'  witliluM  I'l"  i' 
'oinirfs^,  Hiiiir.)i>rialion-i  aio 

or  may  not  I"'  nuuli',  wilh- 
sis;  uiiil  llii;>"'  »•■  '*  rci'Diu- 

uciii;,' llu' ilutics  on  iaiiicrts  " 
itorihi-pri'si'iitmoiitli,  tluro 
upiin  Ihr   ri'vciuii',  ami   lias 

II  is  h'll  cliUibtiil.  liowi'vcr, 
I  aiUI  lai'.'i'ly  to  our  t'orci-a 


^rr.iM)  AN\L\i.   Mr.s-n.i.r 


3S7 


•  r.-vlo,  ariii   pr.MiaK,.   il,r  «.„,.,,!    ,,r .nts.      \lti|,.iml)  il   r.irinol   I.., 

<•(  rl.mily  Crurrt.  what  uniDiint  of  rurnur  it  will  vi.  1,1,  it  i,  ,  .ii,„  ,,,,| 

that   11  will  rxv,u\  tliat   pr.Hlu.v.1   |,v  II t  n(  |s|-.»,  w|,i,|.   it  s,,,'.  r- 

-.1.1.. I.  'ri,,'  i.'ailin',;  ,,ruiriiil,.^  ..t  ,l,Ji.|„.,|  |,v  ,i  „r,.,  ,.,  |,  ^^  ,|„,  ,  ,,,„ 
V.III.  (ivkwto  rai...'  rrvriiu,.,  ami  |,>  iinpoNo' thriii  up„ii  t'hc  artirl.H 
iiM|Mirliil  iicconlinj;  to  llinr  iictiial  valiii-, 

Tli.Mirt»ri8|-J,  l,y  thr  ixt-.hiv  rat.  ■.  or.;ulv  wIh,I,  ,t  iaip„sr,l  ..,. 
many  miclcH,  eiih.r  l„tallv  -xHu,!,  ,|  tl„,„  IV„m,  nnporlalinn,  or  "n  ally 
'•■  'iNi'i'il  till-  amount  inip,.rir,l,  ami  il.iis  limmn.liv.l  in.sl,  a.l  oi"  pro.lianr' 
I'MiMi.v  IJy  It  ll,r  tax,  H  w.  r''  imp'.s,  ,1  m.t  ii)r  Ihr  l.jiliimatr  pnnni-.' 
Ill  r..lMi.i,'r,'V.i.un,  hut  to  i.irur,!  mlvanta«,H  !„i;iN„r..|  rla«,.'H  „t  llm 
<'xp'  n-i:  .,1-a  iarjr,.  m.ijurily  ..nhcir  ii||„w.citi/,.nH.  Tlii«,.  rniplov,  ,1  m 
a-u,uHuri',  m(rham,alpur.suiiH,  .■oaiui.rc..  ami  ii  ivi-uiaii,  w,  n' .•„,„ 
I"ll"l  to  .•i.nlrihuir  rr„m  tluir  KulMtancr  to  sw.ll  Ihr  proliu  an.! 
ov.r_.r,m„  w.-alih  of  tlu'  .•„mpar,.tiv'ly  (i  w  who  hM  inv,.!,.!  ih.  ,r 
'•■ipila  in  manularluiTM,  Th.tax..  w,  n:  U'lt  I,  vj.  ,1  in  proparla,,,  i„ 
111-:  vahi'Mifthparlirhsupan  whirh  th.  v  w.r.-  iu.po.nl  ;   hut,  WmIiIv 

;''•'•""'"-'  '■'• "'"  .i"-'  nil.'    th..  li:;ht.r  tax.KWiMT.in  mmv  ■•,,«, '., 

M.i-.l  up,,,,  arta'hHui'  luxury  ami  hi;;h  prir,..  au,l  th..  h.i^a  r  tax,  m  oi» 
Ihos,)..!  mviwlyani  |„w  prav,  runsuui?  .1  hy  t!.„  .rpMi  ,ua-m  m' th- 
P"opl.-.  11  wa.  «  «y:l,„i  th,.  inoitalil'i  n]Wl\,C  wim'l,  waM  to  n  li.  v., 
lav„r(,lclass..«aml  ih,.  w.  ilihy  i;  vv  lV,.m  ,'„Mli-i!naiu.,Mh.  ,r  ju^t  pr„- 
r.orl.on  far  tin:  Hupp„rt  ,.r  (;,.VLrnai,nt,  an,l  t,.  I  ,v  th.'  hur.h  li  on  Ih.' 
I  il'or  ofihc  m:iiiy  tu.;,!.,-,.,!  in  olh.r  pur.-uil.s  ihan  iuamiiactur,  s. 

A  M'-t.ai  ..ounr.pial  ,.n.l  unjust  lia«  h,-,ii  s,ip,  r.-,.  ,1,  ,1  hv  th.- rxi-lin,' 
law,  w  hi.'li  impoM  rt  (luli,  .<  not  lor  the  h,  milt  or  injury  of  .''lass,  s  or  pur- 
MMt«,  hut  .li.tnhut.s,  anil,  as  far  >x»  praclicahl.','  npiahv;.  h  i;i..  pn!,l,n 
:.iir.l'  ii'i  aui,>nu'  all  .■las^i,/:*  an.l  oivup.ili.ms.  'I'l,,.  lUvon  ,1  .-la^.'s,  wh,>. 
iiiuhrla,.  um.iu.,1  an.l  unju-it  Hyst.in  w'lii'h  has  hr.'n  r.pt.al...l,  hav,i 
h.i'.  t,..„r<:  rr-.ilu.  ll  lai-.r-  ).r.,lin,  nml  ui,-inv  of  Iht-ui  nm.'isso.l  lap'.- 
Lo-lumi,  at  ihr  >xp,.u-a.  of  Miany  who  hav,-  1,,.,  n  mad,'  trihut.'iry  to 
Ih.  m  will  JMV.-  ,m  r^as,,,.  D  roa.plain,  ifth,y„hall  ho  rM|uir..|  toh.Mr 
'1.'  ir ji.si^  p.'.ip.M'liim  oi't',,.  utxti  nc(!ossary  for  the  .suiiport  of  (.  .virn- 
10.  nt,  .S,i  i;,r  fnxu  ir,  u  will  |.,;  prTocivcil,  hy  an  cxamiimtioii  of  l!i..' 
.-ustinu'  I'lw.  that  ilL^i'miiinaliouH  in  tha  rates  of  duty  iiupo.cd.  within 
Ih.'  r.'vmi..  p-.n..ii,!..  h  .vr  hc,.a  r.'taini;.!  in  thtir  favor. 

'I'h.'  in, ■1,1,  Ml-il  aiil  a  '  i  ii.-it  for.  i;r„  romputitinn  which  thcv  Mill  .•iij..y 
i.'iviN  til.'  a  an  a, !^  .,„(..  -  •  whi,.'i  no  olli.-r  imrsuita  poss,-,s.s  ;'  hut  of  thi':4 
n^.Tf  oth.-r^  will  .'..  luluin  h.v.u--  th.:  iluli.s  l,;vii-,l  um  ni'(v:..sary  lor 
r.  1.  nu...  Thcv  r.  m:,u-.  .lut],.^,  i,i,-|i,Juitr  rroii^hts  iinil  charrrH,  whi,-!i 
Ih':  miporf.r  mu«t  |..,s  !„,;„•,:  !„.  .-an  coim-  in  coinpMition'with  thn 
Imaif.  nuinulaiJliinr  o,  .,=.,■  ,,i.irl<,  Is  nuiount,  on  ncnrlv  all  our  loading 
br,.nche»  ,.f  maiuii.,  :  u  ;   m   a„;     tluiu  une  third  of  the  value  of  thu 


I 


(1 


388  BECOND    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 

imported  article,  and  in  some  cases  to  almost  one  half  its  value.    With 
3   a  v"  ntag  s   it  is  not  doubto.l  that  our  douKst.c  manufar  ur- 
crfwill   continue  to  prosper,  realizing  in   well-eonducte.     e«tab  sh- 
n  ents  even  greater  prolits  than  can  be  derived  from  any  other  regular 
urinesr  Indeed,  so  far  from  requiring  the   pvo.eetion  of  even  ,ne.- 
"ta  revenue  duties,  our  manufacturers  in  several  lead.ng  bnu,che 
a        xtendin.  their  business,  giving  evidence  of  great  ,ngonu„y  and 
1.  and  of  tLir  ability  to  compete,  .ith  increased  pro.pect  o  «„oc..s 
.•.,r  the  open  market  of  the  ..orld.     Domesfc  -'"""f "'"' ^/^^ 
value  of    everal  udUions  of  dollars,  ^hieh  cannot  find  a  .narket  at 
h  „":.  are  annually  exported  to  foreign  countries.     W.th  ^^^ 
duty  as  those  establisi>ed  by  the  existing  law,  the  system  w>ll  1  r"  "l^lj 
be  Jer,nanent ;  and  capitalists,  who  have  made,  or  sha  1  hereafter  mak 
their  investments  in  n.anufac.ures,  will  kn^v  upon  -l.»t  to  r  ly^     The 
country  will  be  satisfied  with   these   rates,  because     he   «  v»n    ge 
which  the  manuructurers  still  enjoy  result  nece..nrdy  from  the  eoUec 
tion  of  revenue  for  the  suppo.t  of  Government,     H.gh  P-f^-^-"  '^;'  ^^ 
Vrom  their  unju.t  operation  upon  the  masses  o.  t  e  peopl  ,  c^^nnot 
to  give  rise  to  extensive  dissatisfaction  an,l  compla.nt,  ami  to  con  ta  t 
en-frts  to  change  or  repeal  them,  rendering  all  •nve.ta,ent«  .n  ma   ut. 
tures  uncertain  and  preoariou..     Lower  and  more  P"'""""^  Z'!'  /^^  J 
duty,  at  the  san>e  thne  that  .hey  will  yield  to  the  -";-'^^-  "^  ~ 
reuLerMingprofils,  will  secure  hi,n  aga.nst  ''-   ''";;^7/.''  '3;' 
changes  in  the  syste.n,  which  cannot  fail  .0  ruu.ously  afiect  Ins   n.     c^. 
Simultaneously  wuh  the  relaxation   o.  the  restvct.ve  pol  ey  by  ti.e 
United  States,  Great  Britain,  from  whose  cxaa.ple  we  derived  the  sys- 
tem, has  relaxed  hers.     She  has  modified  her  corn  laws,  and   reduced 
many  other  duties  to  n.oderate  revenue  rates.     After  ages  oi  experience, 
the  statesmen  of  that  country  have  been  constrained  by  a  stern  neces- 
silv,  and  by  a  public  opinion  having  its  deep  foundation  in  the  suller- 
in.'rs  and  wants  of  iB.j.overished  millions,  to   abandon  a  system     he 
^liict  of  which  was  to  iuild  up  iuunense  fortunes  in  the  hands  ot  the 
few,  and  to  re<luco  the  whoring  iniUions  to   p:u.pensm  and   misery. 
IN-eariy  in  the  same  ratio  :ll.at  labor  was  depressed,  "capital  yvas   .n- 
crea^rd  «nd  conceutratcd  bv  tU  Jirili.-^h  prot.ctiv;  policy. 

■11...  evils  of  the  sy.stem  in  Grtat  Britain  were  at  length  rendered  m- 
toleralile,  and  it  has  been  abandQW'd,  but  not  without  a  severe  strug- 
gle on  the  part  of  the  protected  and  iivored  classes  to  retain  llie  un- 
just advantages  which  they  liave  i,»  long  en.ioye.l.  It  was  to  t«? 
expected  that  a  similar  strugule  vouldU  made  by  tlie  same  clas..es  in 
the  United  States,  whenever  an  atte.npt.y,  ai.  ...acb-  to  moduy  o.-  nl.olisn 
the  same  unjust  system  here.  Tl.<c  prgtcu;lv<>  policy  had  been  in  opera- 
tion in  tlie  i'nilpd  StBte*  for  a  mi.*!.  ^iV:^^ f^'-tM    »n,l  it.   penUcious 


IGE. 

ic  half  its  value.    With 

domestic  ninnufactur- 
■ll-conducted   estiiblisli- 

t'rcm  any  other  rejjular 
pvotpction  of  even  inci- 
;verul  kading  branches 

of  great  ingenuity  and 
nscd  proi»|)ert  of  bucccbb, 
c  manufaoturPB,  to  the 
>nnot  find  a  market  at 
icH.  Whh  such  rates  of 
the  system  will  probably 
;,  or  shall  hereafter  make, 
upon  what  to  rely.  The 
irecausc  the  advantages 
■cPBurily  from  the  collec- 
Higii  protective  duties, 
f  the  people,  cannot  fait 
mplaint,  and  to  constant 

investments  in  mnnut'ac- 
iHore  permanent  rates  of 
he.  manufacturer  fair  and 

the  danger  of  frc-Kuenf; 
inously  afloct  his  interest. 
I  restrictive  policy  by  ti;t' 
Miple  ivc  derived  the  sys- 
■  corn  laws,  and   reduced 

After  ages  of  experience, 
strained  by  a  stern  neces- 
foundation  in  the  suller- 
)  abandon  a  system,  the 
uncs  in  the  hands  of  the 
)  pauporisai  and  misery. 
epn.s.-!ed   -capital  \vas   in- 

ctive  policy. 

ore  at  length  rendered  in- 
ot  witiuiut  a  severe  strug- 
classes  to  retain  the  un- 

oiijoyed.      It  was  to  be 
ide  by  the  same  cliis.-ies  in 

ni.-u'.e  to  modil'y  o."  nbolisli 
•  policy  had  been  in  opcra- 

.t;..-r.>oil    and  its   pen'icimis 


SECOND    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


889 


effects  were  not,  therefore,  bo  clearly  perceive,!   and  felt.     Enough 
however,  was  known  of  these  enccts  to  induce  its  repeal 

It  would  be  strange  if,  in  the  face  of  the  example  of  Great  Britain 
our  pr.nc.pal  foreign  customer,  and  of  the  evils  of  a  svstem  rendered 
man.fest.n  that  country  by  long  and  painful  experience,  and  in  the 
iace  of  the  .ramcnse  advantages  which,  under  n  more  liberal  commer- 
cial pohey  we  arc  already  deriving,  and  must  continue  to  derive  bv 
supplying  her  starving  population  with  food,  the  TJnJted  States  should 
restore  a  H'cy  which  she  has  been  compelled  to  abandon,  and  thu, 
diminish  her  ability  to  purchase  from  us  the  food  and  other  articles 
which  she  Bo  much  needs,  and  we  so  much  desire  to  sell.  By  the  sim- 
ultaneous abandonment  of  the  protective  policy  by  Great  Britain  and 
the  Lnitcd  States,  new  and  important  markets  have  already  been 
opened  for  our  agricultural  and  other  products;  commerce  and  naviga- 
ion  have  received  a  new  impulse  ;  labor  and  trade  have  been  released 
irom  the  artificial  trammels  which  have  so  long  fettered  them;  and  to 
a  great  extent  reciprocity,  in  the  exchange  of  commodities,  has  been 
ntroduced  at  the  same  time  by  both  countries,   and  greatly  for  the 

ci^cun  t      ;  1 ''""' '''"""  '"^ """"'  '■"^"■''  ^y "-  p---  o 

urcumstances  at  home,  to  abandon  a  policy  which  has  been  upheld 
lor  ages,  and  to  open  her  markets  lor  our  immense  surplus  of  bread- 
*^  ulTs;  and  it  ,s  confidently  believe.l  that  other  powers  of  Europe  will 
ul.imately  see  the  vis.lom,  if  they  be  not  compelled  by  the  pauperism 
and  sun-erings  of  thei.  crowded  population,  to  pursue  a  similar  policy 

Our  farmers  arc  more  deeply  interested  in  maintaining  the  just  and 
liberal  policy  of  the  existing  law  than  any  other  class  of  our  citizens 
I  hey  constitute  a  large  majority  of  our  population;  and  it  is  well 
known  that  when  they  prosper,  all  other  pursuits  prosper  also.  They 
have  heretofore  not  only  received  none  of  the  bounties  or  favors  of  Gov- 
ernment, but,  by  the  unequal  operations  of  the  protective  policy  have 
been  nuute,  by  the  burdens  of  taxation  which  it  imposed,  to  contribute 
to  tlie  bounties  which  h,  ve  enriched  others. 

^Vhen  a  foreign  as  well  as  a  home  market  is  opened  to  them  they 
must  receive,  as  they  are  now  receiving,  increased  prices  for  their'  pro 
ducts  They  wdl  find  a  readier  sale,  and  at  better  prices,  for  their 
wheat,  .lower,  nee,  Indian  corn,  beef,  pork,  lard,  butter,  cheese,  and 
other  articles,  wh.ch  they  produce.  The  home  market  alone  is  inade- 
quate to  enable  them  to  dispose  of  the  i.mncnse  surplus  of  food  an  J 
other  articles  which  they  are  capable  of  producing,  even  at  the  most 
reduced  prices,  lor  the  manifest  reason  that  they  cannot  be  consumed 
in  the  country.     The  United  States  can,  from  their  immense  surplus 


390  SECOND    ANM.-AL    MESPAGK. 

in  Great  Britmn,  and  other  parts  "f^^^' "^;i,i„„,, ,,  „ot  -loubteu  ; 
increase  the  .Innand  for  our  ^'^^^'f  "'^'' "^  ^  .eaicman.l,  and  of 
but  that  the  sroat  arid  cmc.^t  cav^e  of  .1  u.   nn. -  ,^^^^,^,_ 

increased  prices  cor....s  m  ho  rmoaloa^^^^^^  .  ^^^  ^^ 

fore  imposed,  is  ''-^f ;;,;., '^  £  ^ond  forn.or  example,  under 
food,  already  increased  "^n  '  '""'^=^''";  ,  j  ^.n  i„  ^tiU  vastly  en- 
the  more  liberal  policy  winch  has  >-  "  ^^^  f^'^  ^^.^^^ulon  of  the 

,ar,ed,  unless  they  be  <• '""k-l   ' '  P'?  ."J  J„,„^^^^^  navi- 

protectivopol.y,eannot  ..nj     .L       hat  o.:r^        ^^,^  ^.^^  ^,^^  .^_ 

gatin.  interests  wdl  be  ^^^f^^  ■  while  our  manufacturing  interests 
crease  of  our  trade  ,se,iually.  at  un,wn.  ^^.^^  ^^^^  ._^_,._ 

.il,  .till  be  the  -^-7'   -^:;:\:',  ;  rSis;  and  more  than  this 

dental  protection  affonled  them  i>y  re^i.u^ 

they  cannot  justly  demand  ^  ^^^.^^  of  revenue  duties 

In  my  annual  tnessa-r  '  J^  '^-V^.j^,,  ,,^,  „„«  rccom.nended,  and 
based  upon  the  P""-!''-;''^;^";'  .-.^„;,,,,„, ^pressed.  In  view 
I  have  seen  no  reason  to  -j"  "^     »;  '  ^  ,  Jo,m.oM  that  the 

of  the  probable  benencial  elle  ts  "    ""  .        commenced  to 

pol.cyLblishedbyitl^..u.n^n^.     U  -^  .^  ^  ,^.^  ,,^, 

should  be  fairly  tested.  ,„,„,:„„  whether  it  may  not  bo  proper, 

It  is  submitted  for  your  cons.d    at.on  wh  th        ^^_y^  ^^  ^^^  ^^  .^,^^ 

as  a  war  measure    to  .mpoe  '^--- .",^  ,,„,,,.,  proper  to  impose 
„owe,nbracedinthcfreehst  J^^^^^^^^^^^  ^,^^  ^^p^„,,,  „,  ,  , 

rSM::to;=---^^^^ 

policy  of  the  rountry.  y^  <.„,  the  better  or- 

Tho  act  of  the  s>xth  of  A^5"«t  I-'.  I^       ^^^^,^^     j^^,^^ 

g.ni.ation  of  the  Treasury,  and  fo  th  c_o  ^^,  ^^^,^^  .^^^  ^^^^^_ 
Ind  disbursement  of  the  pubbc  '^'JT  out  of  the  appointment 

,on  as  rapidly  as  ^J^' ^'^'^  ^^J^Mhe:  bonds,  and  preparing  and 
of  new  officers,  ^f '"^  .""'^  "P^' ^  ke.pin.  of  the  public  money,  would 
.ocuring  proper  places  for  the  -^  ^-P'  ^^  \  f,,,,  „,e  princples 

d:xs^irs;i^-: -- -- "^ 


\f;r.. 

R  cliiof  nrliclcs  of  foo.l 
lay  have  contritiulcd  to 
ovisions,  is  not  doubteu  ; 
icro!\sc(l  (Icmnnil,  and  of 
ificial  restrictions  hrreto- 
,.     Tlint  our  exports  of 
1  former  example,  under 
(1,  will  be  still  vnstly  en- 
l  bv  a  restoration  of  the 
ur  commercial  and  nayi- 
indiiii^  ratio  witli  HiR  in- 
r  manufacturing  interests 
iry,  and  receive  the  inci- 
uti'es;  and  more  than  this 

X  tnriir  of  revenue  duties 
\r,  WHS  recommended,  and 
s  then  expressed.  In  view 
w,  I  rccoiiimend  that  the 
IS  \mt  just  commenced  to 
out  giving  it  a  fair  trial, 
1  defects  in  any  of  its  de- 
exist,  these  may  be  here- 
l  become  manifest,  the  act 

ether  it  may  not  be  proper, 
ties  on  some  of  the  articles 
e  deemed  proper  to  impose 
)  meet  the  expenses  of  the 
it  the  creation  of  a  public 
;r<rcncy  which  gave  rise  to 
no  part  of  the  permanent 

o  provide  for  the  better  or- 
Icction,  safekeeping,  transfer, 
lias  been  carried  into  exccu- 
isin.t  out  of  the  appointment 
,r  bon.ls,  and  prep.iring  and 
^  of  the  public  money,  would 
w  respect  from  the  principles 
,unded.  There  are,  however, 
doped  by  its  practical  opera- 
»port  of  the  Secretary  ot  the 


SECOND    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


891 


Treasury,  to  which  the  attention  of  Congress  is  invited.  These  defects 
would  iinjiair,  to  some  extent,  the  successful  operution  of  the  law  ut  ull 
times,  but  are  especially  embarrassing  when  the  country  is  engaged  in 
a  war,  when  the  expenditures  are  greatly  increased,  when  loans  are 
to  he  effecteil,  and  the  .lisl.ursemcnts  are  to  be  made  at  points  many 
hundred  miles  distant,  in  some  cases,  from  any  <leposilory,  and  a  lar.n; 
portion  of  them  in  a  foreign  country.  Tiie  iiiodilications  .su^'gestr,!  In 
the  report  of  the  Secretary  of  the  Treasury  arc  recomiiieiidei.rt,)  vour 
favoralde  consideration. 

In  onneclion  with  this  subject,  I  invite  your  uttcnlion  to  the  impor- 
aneu  o;  t.,tal.li.diing  a  branch  of  the  mint  of  the   United  States  at 
New  Vork.     Two  thirds  of  the  revenue  dtrivcil  from  customs   b,  in.r 
collected  at  that  point,  the  deunuid  for  specie  to  pay  tlu;  duli,  s  will  be 
largo;  and  a  branch  iiuut.  wlure  Ibreigri  coin  and"liiillijn  cuuM  Ijeiai- 
medialcly  converted  into  .Vmericai;  coin,  would  greatly  facilitate  tho 
transaction  of  the  puhlie  liusine.ss,  enlarge  the  circulation  of  gold  and 
silver,  and  be,  at  tlie  same  time,  a  safe  depository  of  the  public  money. 
The  importance  of  graduating  and  reducing  the  price  of  such  of  the 
public  lands  as  have  been  long  ollered  in  the  market,  at  the  miniaium 
rate  authorized  by  existing  laws,  and  remain  unsold,  induces  me  a.'.iin 
to  recommend  the  subject  to  your  favorable  consideration.     Many  mil- 
lions of  acres  of  these  laruis  have  been  oifered  in  the  market  for  more 
than  thirty  years,  and   large   quantities  for  more  than  ten  or  twenty 
years;   and   being  of  an  inferior  quality,  ih.y  must  remain  uimulable 
ior  an  mdefinile    period,  unless  the  price  at  which  they  may  be  jmr- 
chased  shall   be  reduced.     To  place  a  price  upon  them   above  their 
real  value  is  not  only  to  [.revent  their  sale,  and  thereby  deprive  the 
Treasury  of  any  income  from  that  source,  but  is  unjust  to  the  States  in 
which  they  lie,  because  it  retards  their  growth  and  inerea.so  of  popula- 
tion, and  because  they  have  no  power  to  levy  a  tax  upon  them  as  upon 
-Iher  lands  within  their  limits,  held  by  other  proprietors  than  the  United 
States,  lor  the  support  of  their  local  governments. 

'I'he  henelicial  ellects  of  tJie  graduation  principle  have  been  realized 
by  some  of  the  States  owning  the  lands  within  their  limits,  in  which  it 
has  been  adopted.  They  have  been  demonstrated  also  by  the  United 
States  acting  as  the  trustee  of  the  Chickasaw  tribe  of  Indians  in  the 
lale  ot  their  lands  lying  within  the  States  of  Mississippi  and  Alabama. 
The  Chickasaw  lands,  which  would  not  command  in  the  market  the 
aiinimum  price  established  by  the  laws  of  the  United  States  for  the  sale 
ol  their  lands,  were,  in  pursuance  of  the  treaty  of  183 1  with  that  tribe 
^ul>sequ,.ntly  ollered  for  sale  at  graduated  and  reduced  rates  for  limited 
periods.    The  result  was,  that  large  quantities  of  these  lands  were  pur- 


392 


SECOND    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


rhnaed    wliich  would  otherwise,  have  remained   unsold      The  lands 
r^r  Ji^otd  of  at  .heir 1  v.h.e,  an.l  ,.,any  P-o..  o.  hn.Ue    mean 

^!::r;io!;:;  :^z:^z.. .  our  citi.e„.  to  -come ...  ow. . 

atiow  a„!i  ,nl.ue  -o.  of  .^ehoid.  o^^^^-- —;,:;;  ^^l^^ 
t  i^oTtpitali.^,  th;  ««.e.  may  ho  .strieted,  ^'^  ^;;^;^'^-' 

;  .  .=.■  mm  of  manii"in<'  the  mineral  lands  of  the  tnittn 

.re«s,  the  present  «>""-  ""      "^  ;'",",„,a  ,„,  ,,rouuht  into  market  and 

State,  and  ■-°>--^;'^,;':^  J;/,     rre..rielion.  a.  Congress  mi.ht 

.     :^ X"  ^   h      r:S^e.eventh  of  July  last,  ••  the  r..erved  lead 

^  L^      ^d  contiguous  lands  in  the  States  of  Illino,s  -  Arlaw,sas,  and 

,      ■      ■        f  \vi  m^n^m  -iml  Iowa,'    were  aullion/Md  ti»  be  sold,      i  in 

lerriiorits  n„,,rntion  to  '^Icad  mines  and  contiguous  lands. 

is  fe        ent  d   o  he  very' aluahle  ;  and  1  reconnncnd  that  provjs.on  he 

dtLdadvisahlfhavin,  due  regard  to  the  interests  o,  such  of  our 

ritiTons  as  mav  be  located  upon  them.  .  ,  ,•  ,      .  „: 

t  w  11  b  inU-t,  .lurin.  your  present  session,  to  -tabhs^i  a  terr. 
toriaUovernmcnt,  and  to  extend  the  jurisdiction  and  lawsot  the  United 
tonal  govern  mm,  n,»^,%n      Our  lawrs  rciru  ating  trade  and 

States  over  ^^^^^^^  SbfeaBt  o  ht^KoeU;  Mounlams  should 
intercourse  with  the  1^  -  Oce .n  ;  and  for  the  purpose  of  executing 
then?  and  re  vfn  ^  dJJ  relations  with  the  Indian  tribes  within 
ou7  Uinhs  an  :  ditional  number  of  Indian  agencies  will  be  required, 
Td  luld  be  authorized  by  law.  The  -t'^^"^.*'-"!  ^  .^^^X. 
houses,  and  of  post-ortkes  and  post-roads,  '^"fP"'^'^"'".'^^;^''^  ""1 
portation  of  the  mail  on  such  routes  as  the  public  converjicn  e  wdl  sug 
Ke  require  legislative  authority.  It  will  be  proper,  '^'«''.  ^''^f  ^^  ':^ 
a  surve'y or-general's  office  in  that  territory,  and  to  moke  the  nece^ 


3AGE. 

ned   unsolil.     The  lands 
'  ncrsonti  of  limited  means 

whicli  tlity  iiavc  scUled 
,mld  lie  produced  by  the 
L'nitrd  States,  in  all  the 
,rp,  bodies  of  lands  which 
doubled.  It  cannot  he  a 
tho  public  lands  from  tho 

upon  them  prices  which 
ind.     On  the  contrary,  it 
■tens  to  become  the  ownt  rs 
heir  own,  instead  of  bcin^ 
be  apprel'.cnded  that  these 
in  larw  quantities  by  sprc- 
■ictcd,  in  limited  quantities, 
mrposes  of  cultivation. 
ir  the  consideration  of  Con- 
nineral  lands  of  the  United 
)(■  brought  into  market  and 
tridions  as  Con;;ress  mii^ht 
uly  last,  •■  the  reserved  lead 
f  Illinois  and  Arkansas,  and 
authorizcal  to  be  sold.     The 
lines  and  contiguous  lands.  ' 
lining  copper  and  other  ores 
•ecouimend  that  provision  be 
apon  such  terms  and  eondi- 
c  judiTUient  of  Congress,  be 
he  interests  of  such  of  our 

t  session,  to  establish  a  terri- 
iction  and  lawsof  the  United 
r  laws  regulating  trade  and 
the  Rocky  Mountains  should 
for  the  purpose  of  executing 
dth  the  Indian  tribes  within 
m  agencies  will  bo  required, 
le  establishment  of  custom- 
,  and  provision  for  the  trans- 
;  public  convenience  will  sug- 
11  be  proper,  also,  to  establish 
tory,  and  to  make  the  neces- 


sKcu.vL)  .\.\vi;ai.  MEaaAOE. 


393 


fiary  provision  for  surv.ying  the  public  lands,  and  brin^in<T  them 
into  market.  As  our  ciiizms  who  now  reside  in  that  distant" rerrion 
have  been  subjected  to  many  hardships,  privations,  and  sacrifices  in 
their  emigration,  and  by  tluir  improvements  have  enhanced  Iho  value 
of  llie  public  lands  in  the  neighborhood  of  tlirir  settlemonis,  it  is  recom- 
mended that  liberal  grants  be  made  to  lluin,  of  such  porli.ms  of  these 
lands  as  they  may  occupy,  and  that  similar  grants  or  ri.'hts  of  pre-rmp 
lion  be  mude  to  all  who  may  emigrate  thither  within  a" limited  period 
to  be  iirescrihed  by  law.  ' 

The  report  of  tlic  .Secretary  of  War  contains  detailed  inlbrmation 
relative  to  the  several  brani-hes  of  the  public  service  connected  with 
that  oeparlment.  The  operations  of  the  araiy  have  been  of  a  satisfac- 
tory and  highly  gratifying  character. 

I  recommend  to  your  early  an,l  favorable  consi.leration  the  measures 
proposed  by  the  .Secretary  of  War  li,r  speedily  tilling  up  the'  rank  and 
/lie  01  the  regular  army,  for  its  greater  elliciencv  in  the  field,  and  for 
raising  an  miditional  Ibrce  to  serve  during  the  war  with  Mexico 

Kmbarrassment  is  likely  to  arise  fi.r  want  of  legal  provision  authoriz- 
ing cnmpen.-ationtohemade  to  the  agents  employed  in  the  several 
Mates  and  Territories  to  pay  the  revolutionary  and  oth.r  pensioners 
the  amounts  allowed  them  by  I„w.  Vour  atlenti.jn  is  invited  to  the 
recommendations  of  the  .Secretary  of  War  on  this  subject  These 
agents  incur  heavy  responsibilities  and  perli.rai  important  duties  and 
no  reason  exists  why  ihey  should  not  bo  placed  on  the  s.ime  footin.^ 
as  to  compensation,  with  other  disbursing  ollicers. 

Our  relations  with  the  v.irious  Indian^ribes  continue  to  be  of  a  pa- 
cific character.  Tho  unhappy  dissensions  which  have  existed  amon.. 
the  Chcrokees  foY  many  years  past  have  been  healed.  .Since  my  las'? 
annual  message  important  treaties  have  been  negotiate,!  with  some  of 
the  tribes,  by  which  the  Indian  title  to  larL'e,- tracts  of  valuable  land 
within  the  limits  of  the  .States  and  Territories  has  been  etin-ruish  ed 
and  arrangements  made  for  removing  them  to  tho  country  west  of  the 
Mississippi.  Between  three  and  four  thousand,  of  dillerent  tribes  have 
been  remove.l  to  the  country  provided  for  them  by  »-eaty  stipulations 
and  arrangements  have  been  made  lor  others  to  follow 

In  our  intercourse  with  the  several  tribes,  particular  attention  has 
been  given  to  tho  important  subject  of  education.     Tho  number  of 
schools  established  among  them  has  been  increased,  and  additional 
meahs  provided,  not  only  lor  teaching  them  the  rudiments  of  educa- 
tion, but  of  instructing  them  in  agriculture  and  the  mechanic  arts 

I  releryou  to  the  report  of  the  Secretary  of  the  Navy  (l.r  a  satisfac- 
tory view  of  the  operations  of  the  department  under  his  charge  durinff 

17* 


I  '■ 

I  : 
\l 
■  i 


394 


SECOND    ANNUAL    MESSAGE. 


,,„.  raet  year.     It  is  i;ratifyin2  to  perceive,  that  while  the  war  with 
ilxKo  has  r  ndored  H  nec.Lary  to  cnploy  an  uuu.u,.!  ruunber  ol  our 

'T;o:— :';":r3:L"".„.i,,.«, .,- -::;' 

Loir,  ««,..»  ..f  r.l«i.".!  «.J  "»»'"S  ""  "~'"  «'  "'°  ""' 

:"r;:  *!^.:«.nr-;r';„  "it::™  »^  ^;^;-;- 

nost-ofiices.     Contractors,  postmasters,  and  otuers    cn„a„ 


AGE- 


8KC0\n    AWl-AI,    Mi;j<?A«E. 


896 


hat  wliilc  the  war  with 
1  unusu.il  numbiT  of  our 
luo  to  iiur  coinTiicrce  in 
LilVieii  nt.  No  nionns  will^ 
iM!  in  tlic  prosecution  of 
ilcers  iinil  men  anxiously 
leir  country  in  imy  enli  r- 

,in  the  proposition  to  ixM 
t  sea  stcauiir,  anil,  us  cl- 
ient itt  PensacoUi  of  iha 
10  vessels  of  llic  navy  cm- 

rt  whiL-li  ilescrvc,  ami,  I 

rvict",  for  tlic  paM  year  am 
.r  ticncral.      The  revonuj 
K  last  amounttii   to  tlina 
usanil    onfi    humlrcil   and 
inJ  two  thousand  six  luin- 
:nt3  k«s  than  that  of  iho 
jpartnicnt  durin;l  the  same 
housand  two  hundred  and 
Of  this  sum  live  hundred 
■  n  dollars  and  eighty  cents 
disbursements  for  the  year 
1  four  hundred   and  thirty- 
un  those  of   the  preceding 
»  thus  diminished,  the  mad 
5Utes  of  five  thousand  seven 
se  of  transportation  of  one 
and  one  hundred  and  forty- 
lundrcd  and  eighteen  new 
id  others,  engaged  in    this 
lutieswilh  energy  and  faitli- 
any  interesting  details  con- 
ment,  you  are  referred  to  the 
is  suggestions  for  improving 
.orahle  consideration.     I're- 
lual  message,  that  the  busi- 
dated  that  the  revenues  da- 
te expenditures;  and  it  is  be- 


lieved that  this  may  he  done  by  proper  modi/icalions  of  tlie  prrs-nt 
laws,  ns  suggested  in  Ih.;  report  of  the  I'lwtaiaster  General,  with.."..t 
dunging  the  |ire.si'nt  rates  of  postage. 

W  all  full  r.liance  upon  the  wi.sdom  and  patriotism  of  your  delibera- 
tions, it  will  be  my  duty,  a.s  it  will  be  my  anxious  desire,  to  co-operate 
with  you  in  every  constitutional  tlVort  to  promote  the  welfare  and 
maintain  the  honor  of  our  common  country. 


